Tartar buildup on your teeth is a common dental concern, especially for individuals who struggle with plaque control. While it may seem tempting to attempt tartar removal at home, many people don’t realize the risks involved. At McLevin Dental, we want to shed light on why tartar should only be removed by a professional dentist and the potential dangers of trying to do it yourself.
In this blog, well discuss what tartar is, why its dangerous to remove it at home, and the proper way to manage tartar buildup to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy.
What Is Tartar?
Tartar, also known as calculus, is hardened plaque that forms when plaque is left on the teeth for too long and becomes mineralized. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that naturally builds up on your teeth after eating or drinking. While plaque can be removed with regular brushing and flossing, tartar can only be removed with professional tools.
Tartar is rough and porous, providing an ideal surface for additional plaque and bacteria to stick to. Over time, this can lead to more severe dental issues, including gum disease and tooth decay.
Why Is Tartar Removal Important?
Tartar buildup can have several negative effects on your oral health:
Gum Disease: Tartar irritates and inflames your gums, leading to gingivitis (early-stage gum disease). If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can cause tooth loss.
Cavities: The bacteria trapped in tartar can produce acids that damage tooth enamel, leading to cavities.
Bad Breath: The bacteria in tartar contribute to persistent bad breath (halitosis).
Tooth Discoloration: Tartar can cause yellow or brown staining on the teeth, which may not be easily removed with brushing alone.
Why Shouldnt You Remove Tartar at Home?
Many people wonder if they can remove tartar themselves, either by using at-home tools or natural remedies. While some might believe that scraping tartar with a fingernail or using homemade tools is safe, its important to understand the risks involved.
Heres why tartar removal should be left to the professionals:
Risk of Gums and Teeth Damage
Tartar removal requires special tools that are designed to safely scrape off hardened deposits without damaging the gums or teeth. Using sharp objects, like metal scrapers or needles, can result in cuts, gum damage, or even tooth fractures. If youre not experienced with dental tools, you risk causing more harm than good.
Increased Risk of Infection
Improper tartar removal can introduce bacteria into your gums, leading to infections. If your gums are cut or irritated during the process, they may become inflamed or infected, leading to painful abscesses and further complications.
Misleading Results
When you attempt tartar removal at home, you may think youve completely removed it, but its often difficult to remove all of the buildup. Tartar can hide along the gum line or under the gums, which requires professional equipment and a trained eye to remove fully. If tartar is not removed correctly, it can lead to further plaque buildup, increasing the risk of gum disease.
Worsening Tooth Sensitivity
Some at-home methods, like abrasive toothpaste or scrubbing with harsh tools, can wear down enamel. Enamel is essential for protecting your teeth from decay and sensitivity, and once its damaged, it cant be repaired. If you use aggressive scraping methods on your teeth, you could expose the soft dentin layer, making your teeth sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.
How Does a Dentist Remove Tartar Safely?
At McLevin Dental, we use professional tools, such as an ultrasonic scaler and hand scalers, to remove tartar safely and effectively. These tools are designed to gently remove tartar without damaging your teeth or gums. Heres how the process works:
Ultrasonic Scaling
An ultrasonic scaler uses high-frequency vibrations to break apart and loosen tartar. This method is effective for removing tartar from hard-to-reach areas and under the gumline. The ultrasonic tool also sprays water to keep the teeth cool during the process.
Hand Scaling
For more delicate areas, a dentist or dental hygienist will use manual hand scalers to carefully remove tartar buildup from the surface of the teeth.
Polishing
After tartar removal, the dentist will polish your teeth to smooth the surface and remove any remaining plaque or stains. This step helps to keep your teeth clean for longer and makes it more difficult for plaque to accumulate.
Fluoride Treatment
Following a thorough cleaning, many dentists apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen your enamel and help prevent cavities and future plaque buildup.
When Should You Visit the Dentist for Tartar Removal?
You should visit the dentist for professional cleaning if:
You notice tartar buildup on your teeth that wont come off with brushing or flossing.
Your gums are red, swollen, or bleed when you brush or floss.
You experience persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
Your teeth appear discolored due to plaque or tartar buildup.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings every six months are essential for preventing tartar buildup and maintaining optimal oral health. Your dentist or hygienist will remove tartar and ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy.
How to Prevent Tartar Buildup
The best way to avoid tartar buildup is by maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine. Here are a few tips to help prevent tartar from forming in the first place:
Brush Twice a Day
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day. Make sure to brush along the gum line and all surfaces of your teeth.
Floss Daily
Flossing helps remove plaque from between your teeth and under the gumline, where your toothbrush cant reach. Flossing daily is one of the best ways to prevent plaque from turning into tartar.
Use an Antimicrobial Mouthwash
An antimicrobial mouthwash can help kill bacteria and reduce plaque buildup in your mouth. Look for a mouthwash that helps control plaque and freshen your breath.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are the best way to remove tartar and catch any dental issues before they become more serious.
Conclusion: Trust Professionals for Tartar Removal
Removing tartar at home can be tempting, but the risks of damage to your gums, teeth, and overall oral health make it a dangerous option. Trusting your dentist to safely remove tartar and keep your teeth clean is always the best choice. At McLevin Dental, we are committed to providing the highest quality care to ensure that your smile stays healthy and bright.
If youre due for a cleaning or concerned about tartar buildup, contact McLevin Dental today to schedule an appointment. Were here to help you maintain optimal oral health.