What is tartar?
Tartar (calculus) is plaque that has hardened on the tooth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms every day; if brushing and flossing do not remove it, minerals in saliva turn it within days into a hard yellow or brown layer stuck to the tooth, especially at the gum line and behind the lower front teeth.
Why does tartar form even if I brush?
Because a brush does not reach everywhere: between the teeth, below the gum line, and behind the lower teeth near the salivary gland openings. Some people’s saliva also makes tartar form faster than others.
Why it needs removing
Tartar is a rough surface that collects even more plaque, causing gum inflammation, bleeding and bad breath, and over time it can contribute to receding gums and bone loss. It also stains the teeth and makes them look yellow.
How tartar is removed in the clinic
With an ultrasonic scaler that breaks tartar up under a water spray, then fine hand instruments for the difficult areas, and finally polishing that removes stains and leaves the surface smooth so plaque does not stick as quickly. The session is usually comfortable, and a local anaesthetic can be used if the gums are inflamed.
Can tartar be removed at home?
Hardened tartar cannot be removed with a toothbrush or home remedies, and scraping it with sharp tools can injure the gums or scratch the enamel. What you can do at home is prevent it: brushing and flossing every day.
How often should I have a cleaning?
For most people, every six months. People with gum inflammation, many restorations or fast-forming tartar benefit from every three to four months.
Frequently asked questions
Does tartar removal weaken the teeth? No. The instruments remove tartar only; the enamel is not affected.
Why do I feel gaps between my teeth after scaling? Because the tartar was filling the space where the gum had pulled back, and the gums tighten as they heal after the cleaning.
Where can I have teeth cleaning and tartar removal? Dr. Ali Majki’s current clinic: Aline Dental, Shaab, Kuwait.
