How to Tell If You Have Tartar
Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hard, calcified deposit that forms on the teeth. It is composed of bacteria, food particles, and minerals. Tartar can cause a number of problems, including cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Signs and Symptoms of Tartar
The most common sign of tartar is a white or yellow crust on the teeth. Tartar can also cause the teeth to feel rough or bumpy. Other signs and symptoms of tartar include:
- Redness and swelling of the gums
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
Causes of Tartar
Tartar is caused by the accumulation of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth every day. If plaque is not removed regularly, it can harden into tartar.
There are a number of factors that can increase the risk of developing tartar, including:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Dry mouth
- Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes
- Medications, such as steroids
- Smoking
Preventing Tartar
The best way to prevent tartar is to maintain good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
There are a number of other things you can do to help prevent tartar, including:
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Drink plenty of water. Water helps to wash away food particles and bacteria from the teeth.
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Eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet that is low in sugar and processed foods can help to reduce the amount of plaque on the teeth.
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Avoid sugary drinks. Sugary drinks can feed the bacteria in plaque, which can lead to tartar formation.
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Quit smoking. Smoking can damage the gums and make them more susceptible to tartar formation.
Treatment for Tartar
Tartar can be removed by a dentist or hygienist using a variety of methods, including:
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Scaling: Scaling is a procedure in which the dentist or hygienist uses a special instrument to scrape the tartar off the teeth.
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Root planing: Root planing is a procedure in which the dentist or hygienist uses a special instrument to smooth the roots of the teeth. This helps to remove any remaining tartar and bacteria.
Complications of Tartar
Tartar can cause a number of complications, including:
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Cavities: Tartar can trap bacteria against the teeth, which can lead to cavities.
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Gum disease: Tartar can irritate the gums, which can lead to gum disease.
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Bad breath: Tartar can cause bad breath by trapping bacteria in the mouth.
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Tooth loss: Severe tartar can damage the gums and bone that support the teeth, which can lead to tooth loss.
Stories About Tartar
Story 1:
A woman went to the dentist for a checkup and cleaning. The dentist told her that she had a lot of tartar on her teeth. The woman was surprised because she brushed her teeth twice a day and flossed regularly. The dentist explained that she was not brushing her teeth effectively. He showed her how to brush her teeth properly and recommended that she use a fluoride toothpaste. The woman followed the dentist's advice and her tartar problem went away.
Story 2:
A man went to the dentist because his gums were bleeding. The dentist told him that he had gum disease. The man was surprised because he had never had any problems with his gums before. The dentist explained that the man's gum disease was caused by tartar. The dentist cleaned the man's teeth and recommended that he use a toothpaste that contained an antibacterial agent. The man followed the dentist's advice and his gum disease cleared up.
Story 3:
A woman went to the dentist because she had a loose tooth. The dentist told her that the tooth was loose because it was surrounded by tartar. The dentist cleaned the woman's teeth and tightened the loose tooth. The woman followed the dentist's advice and her tooth became firm again.
What We Can Learn from These Stories
These stories teach us that tartar is a serious problem that can have a number of negative consequences. However, tartar can be prevented and treated. By following the tips in this article, you can help to keep your teeth and gums healthy and free of tartar.
Conclusion
Tartar is a common problem that can cause a number of problems for your oral health. However, tartar can be prevented and treated. By following the tips in this article, you can help to keep your teeth and gums healthy and free of tartar.
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