Tartar: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Many people only become aware of tartar during a dental checkup when they're advised to brush more effectively. With diligent oral care, you can significantly reduce tartar over time.

Understanding Tartar – An Unwanted Dental Issue

Tartar refers to hardened deposits that accumulate on teeth due to plaque mineralization. It often appears as a yellowish-whitish color, and in severe cases, it may be brown to black. Tartar is a common issue that typically increases with age. Unlike plaque, tartar is tough and cannot be removed by simple brushing or rinsing. Its regular removal is crucial, as you'll see below.

How Tartar Develops

Tartar begins as plaque, which forms daily on teeth and is easily brushed away. If plaque isn't removed thoroughly, it hardens within about two days due to minerals from saliva, turning into tartar. This hardening can occur quickly, especially in less-attended areas like the backs of teeth, gum edges, and between teeth.

Types of Tartar

Dentists identify two main types of tartar based on its location:

1. Supragingival Calculus: Found above the gum line, commonly at the back of lower front teeth and outside upper molars, forming quickly due to saliva secretion near major salivary glands.
2. Subgingival Calculus: Located under the gum line in gingival pockets, this type is darker and forms slowly but adheres more firmly to teeth.

Risks Associated with Untreated Tartar

While tartar itself isn't harmful, it can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis), which may escalate to periodontitis, affecting the entire tooth support system. This can further contribute to tooth decay and jeopardize overall dental health. Moreover, excessive tartar can affect one's appearance negatively.

Oral Hygiene: Preventing Tartar

The best way to prevent tartar is through consistent, thorough oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice daily for 2-3 minutes, and use dental floss or interdental brushes daily. Effective brushing techniques and the use of fluoridated toothpaste help form a protective layer on the enamel, neutralizing acids and strengthening teeth against decay.

Professional Tartar Removal

Once tartar becomes visible, a dental visit is necessary. Professional dental cleanings are essential since tartar can't be safely removed at home. Most health insurances cover professional tooth cleanings annually. During these visits, dentists use tools like ultrasonic devices to gently remove tartar without pain, unless gums are inflamed.