What is tartar? Causes and consequences

Article created by Dr. Reyes Bajo

Updated;

Eliminación de sarro dental mediante limpieza profunda profesional en clínica dental de Los Cristianos, Tenerife.

When we carry out our daily dental cleaning, among other things, we do it to prevent the appearance of tartar. We have always heard that this dental calculus is harmful to our mouth and our health, but do you know exactly what tartar is?

This is one of the most common oral problems and consists of calcification of bacterial plaque. That is, when plaxa is not removed properly, over time, when it mixes with saliva, it ends up hardening in our teeth – usually between teeth and gums. Not only does it affect our health, it also harms our aesthetics considerably. Tartar buildup varies in color over time, starting out white, then yellow, and then brown.

Why does tartar appear?

As we have said, this dental calculus is nothing more than bacterial plaque, so the most frequent cause is poor oral hygiene. That is why it is important to spend time brushing our teeth well, using dental floss and mouthwash.

However, plaque is not the only cause. The pH of saliva can also play a role, something that varies from person to person. This refers to the degree of acidity we have, which can weaken the enamel further causing cavities. Finally, as a possible cause we can also include food, since it is proven that sugary foods, carbonated drinks or alcohol can alter bacterial plaque.

Consequences of tartar in our mouth

As we have said, the aesthetic factor is important in this case, although we also find quite a few consequences that directly affect our health:

  • Gingivitis
  • Bad breath
  • Cavities
  • Periodontitis

The most important thing: prevention

We must bear in mind that the best way to get rid of tartar is with prevention. To do this, we must have impeccable oral hygiene, dedicate time to it and use some tools such as dental floss or mouthwashes. Controlling our diet will also help us, reducing the consumption of sugary foods. Finally, do not forget that going to your trusted center, such as Clínica Bajo, approximately every six months, is the best way to anticipate all the discomfort we may have in the future.

Professional Dental Cleaning in Los Cristianos: Remove Tartar in Time

Attempting to remove hardened dental tartar at home using home remedies or aggressive utensils is highly dangerous, as it can irreversibly scratch the enamel and destroy your gums. The only safe and effective way to remove it is through deep clinical cleaning. At Clínica Bajo we perform advanced dental prophylaxis treatments using state-of-the-art ultrasound technology, completely eliminating accumulated tartar and surface stains without causing pain. If you haven’t had a cleaning in more than six months or notice your gums are inflamed, schedule an appointment with our general dentistry and hygiene team in Los Cristianos. Protect your gums from periodontitis and show off a fresh, clean mouth today!

By Dr. Reyes Bajo

Founder and Medical Director of Clínica Bajo

Degree in Medicine and Surgery (Univ. of Oviedo) | Specialist in Stomatology and Aesthetic Medicine

Dr. Reyes Bajo combines a solid academic training at the University of Oviedo, the Complutense University of Madrid and the University of Paris, being an expert in dentistry, periodontics and aesthetic medicine. She is an active member of the most prestigious scientific societies: SEPA, SEPES, SEME and ACAME.

Medical Member: 3807171

Member Dentist: 3800638

Sanitary Registration: 1846 (U.44, U.48, U.84)

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