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What is tartar, why do you get it, and what can you do to avoid it? What should you do if your gums start to bleed? In this article, we will teach you everything about tartar.
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Tartar is the result of bacteria in your mouth turning into plaque. This is a white, sticky coating that forms on the surface of the teeth. Over time, this plaque can harden and transform into tartar when calcium and phosphate in saliva react with the plaque. It often takes on a yellowish or brownish color and can be identified as a rough area on the tooth. This occurs especially in places that are difficult to clean, such as the roots of the teeth and near the gum line. In some cases, tartar can also form below the gum line, which can cause pain and further complications. Tartar can also occur on dentures and dental implants.
When the gums bleed, this can be a symptom of gums that have become inflamed due to tartar. Tartar can also cause the gums to loosen somewhat, as well as bad breath. Therefore, it is important to remove tartar regularly.
To prevent the formation of tartar, you should be thorough with daily cleaning using a toothbrush, dental floss, and fluoride mouthwash. Additionally, it can be beneficial to avoid foods and beverages that contain a lot of sugar. Regardless, tartar will develop for most people because there are areas that are harder to keep clean than others. During an examination at your dentist, you will be informed if there are areas you should pay more attention to in order to keep clean.
When tartar has formed, it must be removed professionally by a dental hygienist or dentist. Special tools and scrapers are used to remove the tartar from the surface. This usually does not hurt, but if there is a lot of tartar and it has been a long time since your teeth were last cleaned, the gums may be inflamed. Inflammation will cause red, swollen, and slightly bleeding gums. This will be tender and make the cleaning process more uncomfortable. To avoid this, it is recommended to brush your teeth well twice a day and use dental floss daily, in addition to getting a professional cleaning as often as recommended. For most people, this is advised at least once a year to keep tartar under control. This is, of course, part of your regular check-up with us. We also offer thorough cleanings as a separate treatment if you prefer that. For some, more frequent cleanings may be necessary, making this a great option. Welcome to us!