Tartar also referred to as dental calculus, is a rough plague that has hardened on the teeth. So, is tartar the same as plaque? Tartar is plaque that has not been removed or washed out for a long time. Tartar might also accumulate beneath the gum line and may irritate the gum tissues. Tartar offers plaque a surface for formation since it is much sticky. This may lead to severe dental conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, and cavities. Tartar is not just a dental health problem; it’s as well a cosmetic issue. Tartar absorbs stains very easily because it’s porous. In case you are a tea or coffee drinker, it is essential to avoid the accumulation of plaque.
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What Causes Tartar?
Foods with a high concentration of sugar cause tartar. So, how is tartar formed? When the teeth are not cleaned properly after consuming these sugary foods, the food remains form plaque, which then hardens to form tartar. This clarifies the question ‘is tartar the same as plaque?’ Cakes with icing, candies, and ice cream are some of the foods that contribute to tartar formation.
To avoid the formation of tartar, you should avoid sugary drinks, chocolates, fruit juices, pies, pastries, and puddings. Also, avoid foods with great sugar content, such as honey, jam, sugary cereals, marmalades, sorbets, sweet sauces, and fruits in syrup.
If you cannot avoid these foods, you must brush the teeth properly after consuming them. You can be able to prevent tartar formation by getting rid of sugar on the teeth’ surface.
How to prevent Tartar
Proper dental hygiene is the only way to prevent your teeth from forming plaque, which then results in gingivitis tartar. To maintain healthy gums and teeth, apply these tips.
• Brush the teeth twice every day using a toothpaste that has fluoride. When the fluoride coats the teeth’ surface, it prevents the bacteria found in the mouth from forming plaque. Before going to sleep, brush your teeth. This is essential because the bacteria will not get the chance to start colonization and form tartar. Make sure you brush thoroughly for around two minutes.
• After every meal, use a mouthwash that has fluoride. Even though you don’t brush after every meal, gargling using a mouthwash ensures that you eliminate all excess food particles in your mouth. This helps to minimize germs that result in tartar formation.
• To clean the interdental parts, use a piece of dental floss. Bacteria that form tartar are mainly found in between the teeth, and flossing can remove them. Ensure you floss your teeth properly to avoid injuring your gums
• Practice good eating habits. Consuming foods rich in starches and sugar makes it easy for bacteria to colonize. Ensure that you consume a well-balanced diet with a lot of roughage, which will naturally clean your teeth.
• Avoid chewing and smoking tobacco. This habit can stain your enamel, make your gums inflamed, and the teeth more vulnerable to infections.
• Use a powered or electronic toothbrush. These brushes provide more strength behind the spikes. This makes them a good choice for children and adults who have no strength to properly clean their teeth.
• Visit the dentist regularly. By paying regular visits to the dentist, any tartar build-up will get exposed. He will offer you clues on how to brush properly and avoid tartar.
Treatment Options for Tartar
Depending on the specific condition and the extent of tartar on the teeth, treatment options vary from one individual to another. The doctor may advise you to take antibiotics to remove the bacteria resulting in tartar formation. They may also prescribe toothpaste, which will help to reduce tartar and plaque build-up.
Other treatment alternatives include the following.
Professional Cleaning
If you regularly visit your dentist, they will eliminate the plaque above and below your gum. If you choose to undergo professional oral cleaning several times annually, you will permanently deal with tartar.
Root Planing and Scaling
This refers to deep cleaning. During this procedure, local anesthesia is used. This procedure removes all plaque and bacteria; hence, prevents gingivitis tartar.
There also exist other home remedies that help in the treatment of tartar. They include:
1. Baking Soda
Baking soda helps in the removal of tartar and plaque on your teeth. You mix toothpaste, a teaspoon of baking soda, and a toothbrush. Keep the mixture on your toothbrush’s bristles and clean your teeth. Use warm water to rinse your mouth. For good results, use this technique two times a week.
2. Guava
Guava leaves and fruits are a good remedy for tartar and plaque removal. They also help in minimizing gum swelling. To achieve good results, you chew the guava leaves every day and spit them out. This minimizes the possibility of plaque and tartar build-up.
3. White Vinegar
This product has antibacterial properties that help in removing tartar and plaque. White vinegar has acetic acid, which helps in promoting the demineralization of teeth enamel. All you do is prepare a solution with this product and use it as a mouthwash. Add half a teaspoon of saltwater and one tablespoon of white vinegar to a half cup of water. Mix it thoroughly and use it to rinse your mouth two times a day.
4. Orange Peel
Orange peels help in the removal of tartar. All you do is take an orange peel piece and scrub your teeth for two minutes. Rinse your mouth using warm water. Repeat this procedure at least two times a week.
5. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is very bitter, but it is effective in tartar removal. You use it together with other ingredients comprising glycerin, baking soda, lemon, and water. Mix these ingredients and use the mixture to scrub the teeth. If you repeat this procedure every day, the tartar will be gone in a few days.
Conclusion
Plaque and tartar are a result of not taking good care of your teeth. To prevent plaque build-up, brush the teeth two times a day and floss once. Also, make sure you visit the dentist regularly for tartar removal and preventative care. If you take good care of your teeth, they will remain healthy. If you are in Los Angeles and feel that you have an oral problem or tartar accumulation, plan an appointment with a dentist at Smile Angels of Beverly Hills. They will help you by addressing the issue on time. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any other dental problems.
A smile is the first thing you spot when you meet someone. One major aspect of living a healthy life is taking good care of the teeth. Brushing and flossing every day ensure that the tartar on your teeth gets removed periodically; hence, prevent tooth decay. Tartar that has accumulated without removal may lead to dental conditions such as gum disease. The calcification of this tartar may result in periodontitis, a more serious condition than gingivitis. Periodontitis leads to pus formation, loose teeth, pain while chewing, and bad breath. It may also pose a high risk of heart problems.