Okay, let's move to the science classroom: As we noted, regarding dental health, calculus is more commonly known as tartar. Calculus results from plaque buildup that hardens – or calcifies (like bone) – on your teeth. (Ah! Now the term makes sense, right?)
Here's how your mouth's bacteria evolve into calculus:
Did You Know? Calculus buildup causes your smile to become duller. And not just because of the dental bills you might incur. A porous substance, tartar absorbs stains easily. As you might imagine, preventing calculus buildup on teeth is an even bigger priority for smokers and drinkers of coffee, tea, and red wine.
There are two types of dental calculus:
Calculus removal is necessary to prevent tooth loss and several serious health issues you want to avoid. You'll do yourself a great favor by shutting down the plaque-calculus loop for these reasons:
Now that you know what dental calculus is and why it's essential to remove it, there's only one thing to reveal: How can you remove tartar?
The first thing to know: You can't remove it at home. You can use tartar-control toothpaste to prevent it. You can remove the plaque that develops into tartar with proper oral hygiene. But, alas, you can't remove the hardened calculus yourself.
Once calculus collects on your teeth, you'll need a dental professional's expertise and equipment. Debridement is the name of the process to remove both supragingival and subgingival calculus as such:
After the debridement procedure, you'll schedule a follow-up visit, at which your dental professional will determine if further treatment is necessary. That could come in the form of scaling and root planing. Or, in more severe cases of calculus accumulation, you might need gum surgery. We know you don't want to let tartar and plaque buildup go that far.
Now that you're a calculus expert, you know preventing calcified plaque - aka tartar - is key to building a solid oral care foundation. Start with brushing at least twice a day combined with cleaning between your teeth daily (floss, interdental brushes, water flosser). And don't forget regular dental visits. If calculus is caught early, it'll be no mystery as to why your teeth are healthy and your smile is bright.
Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
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