Tartar and Teeth Damage
Tartar is a hardened mineral deposit that forms on the surface of teeth when soft plaque is left in place too long. Once it develops, it cannot be removed with brushing or home remedies alone. Although it may seem minor at first, tartar can contribute to tooth decay, gum inflammation, and persistent bad breath. That is why its appearance is a clear sign that it is time to see a dentist.
Tartar is a mineral deposit on the surface of teeth that forms as a result of the hardening of soft plaque. Its appearance is a reason to consult a dentist, as it is impossible to remove tartar with home remedies.
The mechanism of tartar formation
About 30 minutes after eating, a thin film called a pellicle forms on the enamel. It consists of microscopic food debris, saliva components, and bacteria that are always present in the mouth. In this nutrient-rich environment, the microorganisms begin to multiply, forming a soft white or yellowish coating.
Plaque is easily removed with a toothbrush and toothpaste during daily brushing. However, if hygiene is neglected, over time, minerals from saliva, primarily calcium and phosphorus, become deposited in plaque. This forms a hard, durable structure that firmly adheres to the tooth surface, called tartar or dental calculus.
The rate of formation of solid deposits is influenced by the following factors:
• Poor hygiene: Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day to remove plaque in a timely manner.
• Features of the composition of saliva: an increased concentration of phosphorus and calcium in saliva accelerates the mineralization of deposits.
• Malocclusion or a habit of chewing on one side: those parts of the jaw that are less involved in the chewing process are more susceptible to the formation of tartar.
Teeth damage and Tartar
Despite its apparent harmlessness, tartar can cause the following problems:
• Dental caries: Unlike enamel, mineralized plaque has a porous structure. It accumulates food particles and harbors microorganisms. As they grow, these microorganisms secrete acid, which dissolves the enamel, making it thin and brittle. Gradually, these microbes penetrate the tooth, causing dental caries.
• Bad breath: Anaerobic bacteria living in the pores of hard deposits release volatile sulfur compounds that have a characteristic odor.
• Gum inflammation: Microbial waste products irritate the gum lining, causing redness.
• Gum pockets: Sometimes tartar forms under the gum, on the neck or roots of the tooth. It causes inflammation and swelling of the tissue, causing the gums to gradually separate from the tooth surface.
• Bleeding. Inflamed, sensitive gums often bleed during brushing. This condition is dangerous because bacteria from the oral cavity can enter the bloodstream and reach the heart, lungs, kidneys, and other organs.
Dentists recommend removing existing tartar without waiting for unpleasant symptoms to occur.
Prevention of tartar formation
Luckily, it is very easy to prevent tartar! The main preventive measures are the following:
• Brush your teeth twice a day.
• Use floss to clean between teeth.
• Eat raw vegetables and fruits regularly.
• Visit your dentist for a checkup and professional cleaning twice a year.
Tartar is not just a cosmetic issue. It is a hardened bacterial deposit that can damage teeth and irritate the gums if it is not removed in time. Because it cannot be safely eliminated at home, regular dental cleanings and consistent daily hygiene are the best ways to protect oral health. Preventing tartar is much easier than treating the problems it can cause later. Contact us today for your next cleaning and for tips on how to prevent plaque and tartar.
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