What Is Tartar? All About Tartar and Your Teeth

Yes, folks, tartar is more than just the condiment you eat with your favorite fish sandwich! Tartar is caused by plaque, the sticky substance comprised of bacteria that forms on your teeth, can eventually turn into tartar buildup. Plaque left on the teeth combined with minerals in your saliva calcifies to form a rough, hard deposit called tartar, or calculus. Just as plaque gets all around your tooth both above and below the gum line, so does tartar.

Dental Hygiene

As tartar builds, plaque bacteria clings to it, which can create a breeding ground for the bacteria to thrive in. Unlike plaque, tartar cannot be removed by brushing and flossing once it has formed. Tartar can only be removed by your dentist or hygienist.

Think Of Tartar As A Roadblock

Tartar can make it more difficult to brush and floss properly, which leads to potential tooth decay. Any tartar that forms above your gum line could be bad news for the health of your mouth, because the bacteria found in tartar can irritate your gums. This can eventually progress to gum disease or periodontitis. Tartar presents a roadblock to effectively brushing and flossing your teeth and the overall health of your mouth.

Tips For Total Tartar Prevention

1. Brush regularly, and floss daily.
2. Use an electronic toothbrush if your regular toothbrush becomes unreliable in fighting plaque and tartar buildup.
3. Eating a healthier diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables gives the bacteria in your mouth less to cling to.
4. Avoid smoking and tobacco products.

Of Course I Brush My Teeth Correctly. Or Do I?

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