Understanding Tartar: The Enemy of a Healthy Smile

At Majestic Smile Studio in Yorba Linda, we believe in the power of knowledge when it comes to maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. One common dental issue that many people face is tartar buildup. Let’s explore what tartar is, whether it is inevitable, and most importantly, how you can effectively remove tartar to keep your smile radiant and healthy.

What is Tartar?

Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hardened plaque that forms on the surface of teeth and along the gumline. Plaque is a sticky film composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. When plaque is not adequately removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can mineralize and turn into tartar. Unlike plaque, tartar cannot be removed by brushing alone and requires professional intervention.

Is Tartar Inevitable?

While tartar buildup is a common dental issue, it is not inevitable. Proper oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings, can significantly reduce the risk of tartar formation. However, certain factors can increase the likelihood of tartar buildup, such as poor oral hygiene habits, inadequate brushing techniques, smoking, and certain medical conditions that affect saliva production. Regular dental visits and professional cleanings are crucial to detect and remove tartar in its early stages.

How Can Tartar be Removed?

The most effective way to remove tartar is through professional dental cleanings performed by a skilled dental hygienist. The process involves two main steps:

• Scaling: During scaling, the dental hygienist uses specialized tools to carefully remove tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline. This process is essential to eliminate the hardened deposits that cannot be removed through regular brushing.
• Polishing: After scaling, the teeth are polished using a gritty toothpaste-like substance. Polishing helps remove any remaining plaque and stains, leaving the teeth smooth and shiny.

It’s important to note that tartar cannot be removed through at-home remedies or over-the-counter products. Only professional dental cleanings can effectively eliminate tartar and restore the health and beauty of your smile.

Preventing Tartar Buildup

Prevention is the key to avoiding tartar buildup. Here are some tips to help you maintain a tartar-free smile:

Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to the gumline and all tooth surfaces.

Floss Daily: Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and along the gumline. Incorporate flossing into your daily oral hygiene routine.

Use Mouthwash: Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and control plaque formation. Choose a mouthwash recommended by your dentist.

Maintain a Healthy Diet: Limit sugary and starchy foods, as they contribute to plaque formation. Instead, opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products that promote healthy teeth and gums.

Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and comprehensive oral examinations. Regular dental visits allow early detection and treatment of any dental issues, including tartar buildup.

Book Your Professional Tartar Removal Today!

At Majestic Smile Studio, we understand the impact that tartar buildup can have on your oral health and smile aesthetics. By understanding what tartar is, its preventable nature, and the importance of professional dental cleanings, you can take proactive steps towards maintaining a tartar-free smile. Remember, regular oral hygiene practices and routine dental visits are the key to preventing tartar and achieving optimal oral health. Schedule an appointment with our experienced dental team in Yorba Linda and let us help you maintain a beautiful and healthy smile for years to come.