Why do I get Tartar So Easily?
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. Some people may find that they get tartar more easily than others. Here are some reasons why this might be happening.
1. Poor Oral Hygiene: Poor oral hygiene is the leading cause of tartar buildup. If you don't brush and floss your teeth regularly, plaque can build up on your teeth and harden into tartar. This can happen even if you brush your teeth regularly but don't do it properly.
2. Diet: Your diet can also play a role in the formation of tartar. Foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates can promote the growth of bacteria that cause plaque. This can eventually lead to the formation of tartar.
3. Saliva: The composition of your saliva can also contribute to the formation of tartar. Some people have more calcium and phosphate in their saliva, which can make it easier for tartar to form.
4. Age: As you age, your teeth become more porous, and your gums may recede, exposing the tooth roots. This can make it easier for plaque to form and harder to remove it.
5. Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to developing tartar more easily. This may be due to the composition of their saliva or the shape of their teeth.
6. Smoking: Smoking can contribute to the formation of tartar by causing a buildup of plaque on the teeth. Smoking can also decrease saliva flow, which can lead to dry mouth and a greater risk of plaque buildup.
7. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can make it easier for plaque to form and harder to remove it. This is because high blood sugar levels can promote the growth of bacteria that cause plaque.
Preventing Tartar Buildup
Preventing tartar buildup is key to maintaining good oral health. Here are some ways to prevent tartar buildup:
1. Brush and floss regularly: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day to remove plaque.
2. Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help strengthen your teeth and gums. Foods high in calcium, such as dairy products and leafy greens, can help keep your teeth strong.
3. Use an antiseptic mouthwash: Antiseptic mouthwash can help kill bacteria in your mouth and reduce the risk of plaque buildup.
4. Limit sugary and starchy foods: Sugary and starchy foods can promote the growth of bacteria that cause plaque. Limit your intake of these foods to reduce your risk of tartar buildup.
5. Quit smoking: Quitting smoking can reduce your risk of plaque buildup and improve your overall oral health.
6. See your dentist regularly: Regular dental cleanings and checkups can help remove tartar buildup and prevent serious dental problems.
In conclusion, tartar buildup can be caused by several factors, including poor oral hygiene, diet, genetics, smoking, and medical conditions. Preventing tartar buildup is key to maintaining good oral health, and there are several ways to do so, including brushing and flossing regularly, eating a healthy diet, using an antiseptic mouthwash, limiting sugary and starchy foods, quitting smoking, and seeing your dentist regularly. If you are prone to tartar buildup, speak to your dentist about ways to reduce your risk and maintain good oral health.