Tartar is formed by the buildup of plaque on the surface of the teeth that has not been removed. When tartar accumulates over time, it can cause serious harm to your teeth and gums. The amount of time it takes for tartar to destroy teeth depends on a variety of factors, such as your oral hygiene habits, the level of tartar buildup, your overall health, and lifestyle choices.
Tartar is destructive to teeth because it contains bacteria that can cause gum inflammation, periodontitis, and even tooth loss if left untreated. Generally, it takes a few months for new tartar to form after the cleaning of teeth, but the effects can become noticeable after as little as two weeks.
Over time, the breakdown of the cementum that covers the roots of teeth caused by tartar can lead to tooth sensitivity and looseness, severe gum disease, and loss of the bones that support teeth. As the tartar continues to build up, the bacteria can cause cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease, which can ultimately result in tooth loss.
To prevent the buildup of tartar and its harmful effects on your teeth, it’s critical to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as daily brushing and flossing, attending regular dental cleanings and checkups, and avoiding smoking or using tobacco products. By staying vigilant about your dental health, you can keep your smile looking great and avoid the need for complex and costly dental treatments.
Why do some people get more calculus?
Plaque is a sticky, colorless layer of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums. If not properly removed through brushing and flossing, it can harden into calculus, also known as tartar. There are several factors that can contribute to the formation of calculus in some individuals.
One of the most significant factors is oral hygiene habits. People who do not brush and floss their teeth regularly are more likely to develop calculus. This is because plaque can accumulate on teeth and gums, and when it is not removed through proper oral hygiene, it can harden into tartar.
Another factor that can contribute to the development of calculus is diet. Foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates can increase the amount of plaque that forms on teeth, which can then lead to calculus. Additionally, people who consume a lot of acidic foods and drinks may be at a higher risk of developing calculus, as the acid can erode the enamel on teeth and make them more vulnerable to plaque buildup.
Genetics may also play a role in the formation of calculus. Some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing more plaque and calculus than others.
Certain medical conditions and medications can also increase the risk of calculus formation. For example, people with dry mouth are more susceptible to developing plaque and calculus, as there is less saliva to wash away bacteria. Additionally, medications that can cause dry mouth or reduce saliva production can increase the risk of calculus.
The amount of calculus that an individual develops depends on a variety of factors, including oral hygiene habits, diet, genetics, and medical conditions. It is important to practice good oral hygiene and maintain a healthy diet to minimize the risk of calculus buildup and other dental problems. Regular dental cleanings and checkups are also important for identifying and treating any issues before they become more serious.
Does tartar eventually go away?
Tartar is a hard yellowish deposit that forms on teeth when plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria, has been accumulating for some time. Tartar buildup can lead to several oral health problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. While plaque can be removed with regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings, tartar cannot be removed by simply brushing your teeth.
Once tartar has formed, it cannot go away naturally. It can only be removed by a professional dental cleaning. Dentists typically use special tools to scrape and scale away the tartar buildup on your teeth. Regular dental cleanings every six months are necessary to prevent tartar buildup from occurring in the first place and to remove any buildup that may have formed.
Moreover, neglecting regular dental cleanings may lead to tartar buildup and the development of periodontal disease, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene habits is necessary for preventing tartar buildup and avoiding the necessity for a dental scaling and root planing procedure.
Tartar does not go away on its own, and it requires professional dental treatment to be removed. Therefore, it is highly recommended to maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and scheduling regular dental visits every six months, to prevent tartar buildup and maintain good oral health.
