TARTAR from teeth - Causes, prevention and how to REMOVE dental PLAQUE and calculus | Dentalk! ©

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22 May 202307:01
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TLDRDr. Simón Pardiñas discusses dental calculus, a common oral issue resulting from bacterial plaque calcification due to saliva minerals. Tartar, which cannot be removed by normal brushing, can lead to tooth decay, periodontal disease, and bad breath. Two types exist: supragingival, visible and easier to remove, and subgingival, linked to gum disease and harder to access. Proper hygiene, including regular check-ups and professional cleaning, is crucial for prevention and removal.

Takeaways
  • 🦷 Dental calculus or tartar is a common oral problem caused by the calcification of bacterial dental plaque around the teeth.
  • 📈 Tartar formation is primarily due to lack of proper oral hygiene, incorrect brushing techniques, and individual saliva composition.
  • 🍽️ The pH of saliva, which can be influenced by certain foods, plays a significant role in whether tartar or cavities form.
  • 🏊‍♂️ Swimmers may be more prone to tartar formation due to the pH difference between their saliva and pool water.
  • 📍 There are two types of tartar: supragingival, which is visible and less harmful, and subgingival, which is hidden, more dangerous, and linked to periodontal disease.
  • 🦷🔍 Diagnosis of subgingival tartar may require x-rays and a periodontal probing to determine its extent.
  • 😁 Tartar is a major contributor to tooth decay, gingivitis, periodontitis, and halitosis, and is also linked to systemic health issues like heart problems and arthritis.
  • 🦈 Treatment options range from regular dental cleaning for supragingival tartar to scaling and root planing or even periodontal surgery for subgingival tartar.
  • 🪥 Effective daily oral hygiene with correct brushing techniques, flossing, and using interdental brushes can prevent plaque and tartar buildup.
  • 👨‍⚕️ Regular dental check-ups, at least twice a year, are recommended for professional cleaning and to address any potential oral health issues early.
Q & A

  • What is dental calculus or tartar?

    -Dental calculus or tartar is a calcification of bacterial dental plaque that accumulates around the teeth. It is a yellowish or brown, rough substance that cannot be removed by normal brushing.

  • How is dental tartar formed?

    -Dental tartar forms due to the precipitation of minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, present in saliva. It develops mainly due to lack of hygiene, incorrect brushing techniques, and individual variations in saliva composition.

  • What are the consequences of not removing dental tartar?

    -If left untreated, dental tartar can lead to tooth decay, periodontal disease (including gingivitis and periodontitis), halitosis, and even systemic health issues like heart problems, arthritis, colon cancer, and brain stroke.

  • What is the difference between supragingival and subgingival tartar?

    -Supragingival tartar is located above the gum and is visible to the naked eye, while subgingival tartar is located below the gum at the root of the tooth and is not visible without professional examination.

  • Why is it important to maintain good oral hygiene?

    -Good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent the formation of dental plaque and tartar, which can cause cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and other systemic health issues. Regular brushing, flossing, and using interdental brushes can help maintain good oral health.

  • What are the recommended dental treatments for removing tartar?

    -For supragingival tartar, a common dental cleaning is usually sufficient. For subgingival tartar, scaling and root planing or periodontal surgery may be necessary, depending on the depth of tartar accumulation.

  • How often should one visit the dentist for a professional cleaning?

    -It is advisable to visit the dentist at least twice a year for professional dental prophylaxis to maintain good oral health and prevent the formation of plaque and tartar.

  • What is the role of saliva pH in tartar formation?

    -The pH of saliva, which normally ranges from 6.5 to 7.5, plays a role in tartar formation. An acidic pH can lead to demineralization of teeth and cavities, while a basic pH favors the formation of dental calculus.

  • How can dietary habits affect the development of dental tartar?

    -Consumption of certain foods can alter saliva pH, thereby influencing the development of tartar on the teeth. Additionally, frequent contact with swimming pool water, which has a higher pH, can also contribute to tartar formation, especially in swimmers.

  • What are some tips for effective brushing and oral care?

    -Using a brush of medium hardness with the correct technique, brushing after each meal, flossing daily, and using interdental brushes when necessary can help prevent plaque and tartar buildup. It's also important to clean the tongue regularly to remove accumulated bacteria.

  • How can we detect subgingival tartar?

    -Subgingival tartar can be detected through dental x-rays and periodontal probing, which are essential for identifying tartar that is not visible to the naked eye.

Outlines
00:00
🦷 Understanding Dental Calculus

This paragraph discusses dental calculus or tartar, a widespread oral issue. It explains that tartar is a calcification of bacterial dental plaque that accumulates around teeth. The plaque, a sticky substance on tooth surfaces, can be removed by brushing but may calcify into tartar if not properly managed. Factors influencing tartar formation include lack of hygiene, incorrect brushing technique, saliva composition, and diet. Tartar is harmful, leading to tooth decay, periodontal disease, halitosis, and aesthetic issues. It comes in two forms: supragingival, visible and easier to remove, and subgingival, more dangerous and harder to detect.

05:01
🦷 Treating Dental Calculus

The second paragraph focuses on the treatment of dental calculus. It describes that deep subgingival tartar may require periodontal surgery, involving gum incisions for root access and tartar removal. The procedure aims to eliminate tartar, smooth root surfaces, remove damaged gum tissue, and reshape bone if needed. Post-surgery, the gum position is lower, creating spaces between teeth that require diligent cleaning with interdental brushes. The importance of regular home hygiene, using medium-hardness brushes, flossing, and tongue cleaning is emphasized. Professional dental check-ups and prophylaxis are recommended at least twice a year to prevent plaque and tartar buildup.

Mindmap
Keywords
💡Dental calculus
Dental calculus, also known as tartar, is a hard, mineralized deposit that forms on the teeth due to the accumulation and calcification of bacterial dental plaque. It is yellowish or brown in appearance and cannot be removed by regular brushing. In the video, Dr. Simón Pardiñas explains that it is a widespread oral problem and discusses its formation, consequences, and removal methods.
💡Dental plaque
Dental plaque is a sticky, whitish substance composed of bacteria that adheres to the surface of the teeth. If not properly removed by brushing, it can calcify into dental calculus or tartar. The video emphasizes the importance of regular and correct brushing to prevent plaque buildup and the subsequent formation of tartar.
💡Oral hygiene
Oral hygiene refers to the practice of maintaining cleanliness in the oral cavity, which includes brushing, flossing, and using interdental brushes. The video highlights that poor oral hygiene is a primary cause of tartar formation and stresses the importance of a good hygiene routine to prevent dental problems.
💡Saliva composition
Saliva composition refers to the various minerals and substances present in saliva, which can affect oral health. The pH of saliva, ranging from 6.5 to 7.5, plays a crucial role in the formation of dental calculus. An acidic pH can lead to demineralization and cavities, while a basic pH favors tartar formation. The video explains how the consumption of certain foods can alter saliva pH, influencing the development of tartar.
💡Periodontal disease
Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is caused by the accumulation of bacteria in dental plaque and tartar. The video discusses two forms of periodontal disease: gingivitis, which affects the gums, and periodontitis, which affects the bone structure. Tartar is identified as a significant contributor to these diseases.
💡Halitosis
Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is caused by the accumulation of bacteria and their byproducts in the mouth. The video mentions that the bacteria present in dental plaque and tartar are linked to halitosis, emphasizing the importance of proper oral hygiene to prevent bad breath.
💡Scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planing is a dental procedure used to remove subgingival tartar, which is tartar located below the gum line. The video describes this technique as being performed under local anesthesia, using special instruments to clean the tooth roots and remove the tartar and toxins that cause gum inflammation.
💡Periodontal surgery
Periodontal surgery is a more advanced treatment option for severe cases of subgingival tartar that cannot be removed through scaling and root planing. The video explains that this surgery involves making incisions in the gum to access and remove the tartar, as well as contouring the bone around the tooth and suturing the gum back in place.
💡Interdental brushes
Interdental brushes, also known as interproximal brushes, are specialized oral care tools designed to clean the spaces between the teeth. The video advises using these brushes, in addition to regular brushing and flossing, to prevent the formation of plaque and tartar in the gaps between teeth, which is particularly important after periodontal treatment.
💡Tooth decay
Tooth decay, or dental caries, is an infectious disease caused by bacteria in the mouth that metabolize sugary substances, producing acids that destroy tooth enamel. The video links the bacteria in dental plaque and tartar to tooth decay, highlighting the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent cavities.
💡Professional dental prophylaxis
Professional dental prophylaxis, or 'deep cleaning,' is a procedure performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to remove plaque and tartar, especially in areas that are difficult to reach with regular brushing. The video recommends visiting the dentist at least twice a year for this prophylaxis to maintain good oral health and prevent the formation of tartar.
Highlights

Dental tartar is a widespread oral problem.

Tartar is a calcification of bacterial dental plaque that accumulates around the teeth.

Dental plaque is a sticky, whitish substance that adheres to the surface of the teeth.

Tartar forms due to the minerals in saliva, such as calcium and phosphorus.

Lack of hygiene and incorrect brushing technique are the main causes of tartar formation.

Saliva's pH can influence the formation of tartar, with acidic pH favoring cavities and basic pH favoring tartar.

Supragingival and subgingival tartar are the two types, with the latter being more dangerous.

Subgingival tartar is associated with periodontal disease and requires x-rays and probing for detection.

Tartar can trigger tooth decay and periodontal disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis.

Bacteria in dental plaque and tartar are linked to systemic health issues like heart problems and cancer.

Tartar has aesthetic consequences, causing teeth to appear dark and dirty.

Supragingival tartar can be removed with common dental cleaning methods.

Scaling and root planing are used to remove subgingival tartar that is not too deep.

Periodontal surgery may be necessary for deep subgingival tartar.

Proper home hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential for preventing tartar and maintaining oral health.

Interdental brushes are crucial for cleaning the spaces created by periodontal treatment.

Using a medium hardness brush and correct brushing technique is advised to protect gums.

Cleaning the tongue is vital for oral hygiene as it accumulates the most bacteria.

Transcripts

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Dental HealthTartar RemovalOral HygienePlaque FormationSaliva pHPeriodontal DiseaseProfessional CleaningDental SurgeryDaily CareHealth Risks