Tartar is a layer of hardened dirt on the teeth. Tartar is difficult to remove even after repeated cleaning or brushing. Therefore, it can only be treated by a dentist. Tartar generally does not cause symptoms or interfere with the function of the teeth themselves. However, untreated tartar can cause problems with the teeth and gums, such as gingivitis or gum inflammation.
Causes of Tartar
Tartar is caused by plaque on the teeth that is not removed. Dental plaque itself is a slippery and thin layer formed from food debris left on the teeth. Dental plaque that is not treated can harden and form tartar or crust that is difficult to remove just by brushing your teeth.
Risk factors for tartar
Although it can happen to anyone, there are several factors that can increase a person’s risk of experiencing tartar, namely:
- Smoking.
- Not brushing your teeth often.
- Not cleaning your mouth with antibacterial mouthwash.
- Eating foods or drinks with high sugar content, such as candy, cakes, or sodas.
- Taking medications that can affect dental health, such as antihistamines or decongestants.
- Having dry mouth, which is usually caused by a side effect of medication, or certain health conditions, such as Sjögren’s syndrome.
- Undergoing radiation therapy for head or neck cancer.
Symptoms of Tartar
Tartar can cause a number of the following complaints:
- Formation of a hardened layer of yellow or brownish dirt on the gum line.
- Roughness on the surface of the teeth.
- Bad breath.
- Swelling and redness of the gums due to inflammation of the gums.
See a dentist if you experience the above symptoms. Early examination is needed so that tartar does not build up and cause complications.
See a doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of gingivitis, such as:
- Swollen gums.
- Gums are reddish black.
- Gums are painful.
- Gums bleed easily when brushing or flossing.
You also need to immediately undergo a dental examination if you experience symptoms of bad breath that lasts a long time (chronic).
Dental Plaque Treatment
The doctor will ask questions about the patient’s symptoms and medical history, followed by an examination of the patient’s mouth, teeth, and gums. If necessary, the doctor can perform a dental X-ray procedure to see the condition of the teeth and gums. In addition to seeing tartar on the gums and teeth, X-rays can also detect damage that may occur due to tartar.
Plaque on teeth that has hardened and become tartar cannot be removed by brushing alone. To overcome this condition, the doctor will recommend the patient to undergo dental scaling. Dental scaling is a non-surgical medical procedure (without incisions) that uses a scaler, a special tool to scrape tartar on the teeth. Scalers are available in manual and ultrasonic types.
Each type of scaler has the same function. However, ultrasonic scalers are more often used than manual scalers. This is because ultrasonic scalers make the grinding process faster and reduce the risk of pain. Before undergoing dental scaling, tell your doctor if you are taking blood-thinning medications, such as heparin or warfarin. Your doctor can also give you a local anesthetic to reduce the pain that may arise from this procedure. Also inform your doctor if you have an allergic reaction to the anesthetic.
Dental Plaque Complications
Some complications that can occur due to tartar are:
- Cavities.
- Gingivitis.
- Periodontitis.
- Loose or missing teeth.
- Dental abscess.
Dental Plaque Prevention
Tartar can be prevented by doing regular dental care at home. Some efforts that can be done are:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss your teeth at least once a day.
- Use mouthwash.
- Eat a complete and balanced diet.
- Do not smoke.
In addition to preventing tartar, dental check-ups and treatments every 6 months can also detect dental problems early. Thus, treatment can be done faster and the risk of complications can be avoided.
