Tartar is plaque's evil cousin and as the old saying goes, "for every awful thing plaque can do, tartar can do better." Although plaque is almost wholly invisible; tartar camps out at the base of the teeth and stains them an unsightly yellow-brown.
So what is tartar and why does it cause so much grief? And how is it different from plaque?
Today, we will quickly give an overview and answer those questions to keep you better informed about your oral health.
Everybody gets plaque. There is nothing to be done about it except to get rid of it at least twice a day. Plaque is formed by bacteria as they feed on any food particles and sugar they find in the mouth. Though plaque is inevitable, tartar is avoidable.
Tartar forms when plaque is left to accumulate on the teeth and interact with minerals to form a hard, porous coating at the base of the teeth.
Because it has pores, tartar absorbs stains like a sponge. So when tartar comes into contact with the coffee, or red wine or pasta sauce, it sucks the colors right up.
Think of tartar like a military base built by bacteria. From this base, bacteria launch their attacks on the teeth safe in the knowledge that nothing can breach the fort.
Tartar attacks the teeth and gums while preventing toothpaste and mouthwash from reaching the distressed teeth. Eventually, tartar causes cavities, gum disease and if left untreated, periodontitis.
No. Unlike plaque which is relatively easy to remove, tartar is hard and crusty. There are no over the counter treatments that can effectively get rid of it. The only two options are to have dental professionals take care of the tartar or to do nothing and hope for the best.
Tartar is removed from the teeth in a process called scaling. The procedure is also used to treat periodontitis.
Scaling can be done with a hand tool known as a dental scaler. The dentist uses the scaler to chip away at the tartar by hand.
Scaling can also be done using an ultrasonic dental instrument with a rapidly vibrating metal tip that chips away at the tartar. The device also has a water nozzle that cleans away the dislodged tartar.
1. Prevent tartar from ever forming by brushing twice a day. The teeth should be brushed for a minimum of two minutes each time.
2. Invest in an electronic toothbrush. It will be the optimal tool to remove plaque.
3. Limit the intake of sugary foods and carbohydrates.
4. Avoid smoking. Cigarette smoke encourages the formation of tartar.
5. Use fluoride toothpaste that has plaque-fighting capabilities.
6. Have teeth cleaned by a dental health professional twice a year.
7. Use antiseptic mouthwash to control bacteria in the mouth.
To keep your teeth healthy and beautiful, all you have to do is keep a good dental hygiene routine including: Brushing, flossing and checking in with your dentist. Keeping this simple routine will ensure you have the best oral health.
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