When you look at your teeth in the mirror, do you notice yellow or brown stains building up?  Does brushing or flossing get rid of them? If they’re stuck on your teeth, they’re most likely tartar. 

What is tartar?  

The mouth contains good and bad bacteria. Bad bacteria combine with food debris and form a  colorless, sticky film called plaque.  

Plaque can still be removed by brushing and flossing. But when it lingers on the teeth, it hardens and turns into tartar.  

Tartar can also be found above and below the gumline. It’s stubborn, rough, unsightly, and can only be removed by using special tools at the dental office.  

How does tartar affect my oral health?  

Tartar attracts bacteria that can irritate the gums and eat away at the enamel, the outermost layer of the teeth. It also makes it harder to clean the teeth and get rid of plaque.  

This gives the acids in plaque more opportunities to corrode the enamel and cause cavities to form. Food debris can get stuck in these holes and lead to discomfort and mild to severe toothaches.  

Tartar accumulating along the gumline can cause the gums to recede and lead to gum disease.  

Mild gum disease or gingivitis can still be reversed with improved oral hygiene habits, which include regular dental visits and hygiene cleanings. If the gum disease progresses and is left untreated, it can result in periodontitis. 

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that can lead to tooth loss. It damages the teeth and bones and causes pockets to form around the teeth. The gums that keep the teeth in place become loose, and you might also experience bad breath, unpleasant taste, and pain when chewing.  

Gum disease is also linked to heart disease and other medical conditions such as diabetes.  

How do I limit or remove tartar? 

Prevention is the best solution to plaque and tartar buildup. Here are tips to limit or avoid  tartar. 

● Brush for two minutes twice a day. Use a soft-bristled brush, avoid aggressive brushing,  and be sure to cover all tooth surfaces, including the back areas. 

● Floss daily to get rid of debris between the teeth, in tight spaces, and hard-to-reach  areas.  

● Use fluoridated toothpaste and mouthwash to fight bacteria and strengthen the  enamel. 

● Limit intake of sugary and starchy food. You don’t have to avoid this type of food altogether, but be mindful of your consumption and avoid grazing throughout the day.  

● Drink water during and after meals to help wash away debris from the teeth. 

● Quit smoking. It causes tooth discolouration and makes you more susceptible to gum  disease. 

● Eat well-balanced meals with vitamins and nutrients that are good for your oral and  general health.  

● Show up for your routine dental cleanings. Your dentist or hygienist can scrape off tartar build-up on your teeth and polish surfaces to keep bacteria out.  

Brighten up your smile with professional dental cleanings 

A healthy, beautiful smile doesn’t have to be costly. With preventative care, you can avoid plaque and tartar buildup. For professional assistance in developing an oral health care plan, contact us at (587) 355-2524.  Let’s book you an appointment with a dentist in NW Calgary.