In this new article by Mariana Arocha, as a dental aesthetics clinic, we will explain why tartar occurs on teeth and what to do to prevent it.
What is dental tartar?
Before learning why tartar occurs on teeth, you should know what it is. Dental calculus or tartar is a manifestation of the accumulation of bacterial plaque on the teeth. Bacterial plaque is a film that adheres to the teeth and gums, composed of bacteria, sugars, and acids that are constantly formed. If bacterial plaque is not adequately removed by brushing and flossing, it hardens and accumulates to form dental tartar.
Dental tartar is a hard, porous substance that adheres strongly to the surface of the teeth and is difficult to remove by regular cleaning at home. The accumulation of tartar can irritate the gums, cause inflammation and bleeding, and in more severe cases, lead to periodontal diseases and tooth loss.
There are two types of tartar:
- Supragingival tartar, which accumulates on the visible surface of the teeth and gums.
- Subgingival tartar, which accumulates under the gums and is not as easy to see because it is not visible to the naked eye.
What causes the production of tartar on teeth?
Why does tartar form on teeth? As already mentioned, accumulated dental plaque can turn into tartar or dental calculus if it is not removed correctly and remains in the mouth for a prolonged period of time.
Dental tartar is difficult to remove with brushing at home and can change the appearance of the teeth, making them yellowish or brown and with a rough surface.
The formation of tartar can also be due to areas of difficult access in the mouth, such as the spaces between the teeth, the gum and the back of the lower and front teeth, which require professional cleaning to prevent the accumulation of bacteria.
In addition, the pH of saliva can also affect the formation of dental tartar. An inadequate pH due to inadequate eating habits and lack of oral hygiene can increase the propensity to form tartar. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly are essential to prevent the formation of tartar and maintain healthy teeth.
Is it dangerous to have dental tartar?
Dental tartar can be responsible for several oral conditions that can be serious, after why tartar occurs on teeth, we will see some of the conditions it can cause:
Gingivitis
Tartar on the teeth can cause inflammation, irritation, and bleeding of the gums. Basic periodontal disease is a treatment that can help reduce inflammation in the area. If left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis.
Halitosis
The bacteria that lodge in the teeth due to poor oral hygiene can cause bad breath.
Cavities
Accumulated tartar makes it difficult to remove bacterial plaque, which increases the risk of cavities and infections that can weaken the dental enamel and lead to tooth loss.
Periodontitis
The accumulation of tartar under the gums can cause bleeding and weakness in the gums, which can lead to tooth loss. Unfortunately, periodontitis is irreversible.
Digestive problems
Bacterial infection in the mouth can lead to digestive problems when swallowed. In addition, dental tartar has also been linked to systemic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases.
This has been all about why tartar occurs on teeth we hope it has been helpful, remember that you may also be interested in some of our blog articles such as: why white spots appear on teeth You can also visit our website, and consult our different dental and facial aesthetic services, some of the most outstanding being the aesthetic dental veneers and porcelain veneers, among other services.