DENTISTRY

TARTAR CLEANING

Tartar Cleaning: What is it, What are the Applications and Procedures, Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tartar?

Tartar is defined as a hardening of plaque and mineral deposits. The tartar, which occurs when the plaque is not cleaned for a long time, can cover most of the teeth and spread below the gum line. Usually, tartar deposits located behind and between the teeth are brown or yellow in color.

1.What Causes Tartar?

There are many different types of bacteria in the mouth. Bacteries cause an acid that damages teeth and plaque forms when they combine with food particles. The plaque, which has a sticky structure, hardens by collecting calcium and other substances in the food if it is not cleaned. As a result, tartar forms.

Tartar occurs along the gum line on the front and back of the teeth. Yellow spots appearing on the back of the teeth are a sign of tartar formation. When these symptoms are observed, it is necessary to be examined by a specialist doctor as soon as possible.

Tartar makes it difficult to brush and floss properly. This leads to tooth sensitivity and tooth decay. On the other hand, the bacteria in the tartar formed above the gum line also irritates the gums. If this condition progresses, it can lead to gum disease. The mildest form of gum disease is called gingivitis.

Regular brushing and flossing helps prevent plaque formation and therefore tartar. However, in cases where calculus is very prominent, a specialist should be consulted. If the specialist physician deems it necessary, she/he will clean the tartar. This procedure is an easy procedure and often does not require any anesthetic application.

The frequency of visits to the dentist is determined by the person's oral and dental health. However, if the patient has gum disease or has a risk of gum disease (for example, smoking or diabetes), tartar cleaning is recommended to be performed every six months. On the other hand, people who are prone to plaque (thereby tartar) formation may need more frequent dental cleaning.

Tartar is extremely common and adversely affects quality of life if not prevented. Daily brushing and flossing, as well as periodic dental cleaning and check-ups, help prevent tartar formation.