Is Tartar Normal on Teeth?
Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hard deposit that forms on the teeth due to the mineralization of dental plaque. Tartar buildup can lead to several dental problems, such as gum disease, bad breath, and tooth decay. It is a common problem that affects many people, but is it normal?
In short, tartar buildup is not normal and can be a sign of poor oral hygiene. When plaque is not removed from the teeth through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden and turn into tartar. Tartar is much harder to remove than plaque and can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated.
While it's not uncommon for some people to develop tartar buildup more easily than others, it is not considered normal or healthy. In fact, tartar buildup can be a sign of underlying dental problems, such as gum disease or tooth decay.
Tartar buildup can also be caused by other factors, such as:
- Poor oral hygiene: If you don't brush and floss your teeth regularly, plaque can accumulate on your teeth and harden into tartar.
- Smoking: Smoking can contribute to tartar buildup by reducing saliva production, which can lead to dry mouth and a buildup of plaque.
- Genetics: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing tartar buildup more easily than others.
- Diet: A diet high in sugary and starchy foods can contribute to tartar buildup by providing a breeding ground for bacteria that produce plaque.
It's important to note that while tartar buildup is not normal, it is a common problem that can be prevented and treated through good oral hygiene practices and regular dental checkups.
Preventing Tartar Buildup
The best way to prevent tartar buildup is by practicing good oral hygiene. This includes:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing your teeth daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and gums
- Using a tartar control toothpaste to help prevent the formation of tartar on your teeth
- Limiting sugary and starchy foods in your diet
- Quitting smoking or using tobacco products
- Drinking plenty of water to help flush bacteria and food particles from your mouth
It's also important to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. During a dental cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove tartar from your teeth. This process is known as scaling, and it involves scraping the tartar from your teeth using a dental instrument called a scaler.
Treating Tartar Buildup
If you already have tartar buildup on your teeth, it's important to have it removed by a dental professional. Tartar is much harder to remove than plaque, and it can only be removed through scaling and other dental procedures.
If left untreated, tartar buildup can lead to serious dental problems, such as gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. Your dentist may also recommend other treatments, such as a deep cleaning or root planing, to help remove tartar from below the gum line and prevent further buildup.
In conclusion, tartar buildup is not normal and can be a sign of poor oral hygiene or underlying dental problems. While it's a common problem that affects many people, it can be prevented and treated through good oral hygiene practices and regular dental checkups. If you have tartar buildup on your teeth, it's important to have it removed by a dental professional to prevent serious dental problems.