Why do I get Tartar So Easily?
Tartar is something that almost everyone deals with at some point in their life. Tartar is a hard, porous buildup that can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Tartar is most often a light yellow color so it can be colorless, and it promotes staining on the teeth. The bacteria within tartar promotes the accumulation of more plaque and bacteria leading to further tartar buildup.
Tartar accumulation around the gum line can cause gum recession and bone deterioration and eventually, tooth loss. It can promote staining and leave patients with bad breath and oral infections.
Why do I get tartar so easily?
Everyone experiences plaque which means everyone can experience tartar but some people are more susceptible to tartar formation and accumulation than others. Some factors that may come in to play in the development of tartar include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Diet high in sugar and carbohydrates
- Tobacco use
- Crooked teeth
Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of plaque and tartar buildup which is why it's so important to brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Brushing your teeth removes the buildup of plaque on the tooth surface and along the gum line and flossing removes black particles from between the teeth.
Where your diet is concerned, the bacteria in plaque love sugars and carbohydrates. They use these energies to produce enamel-eroding acids which can lead to tooth decay. Similarly, tobacco has properties that stain the teeth and allow for bacteria accumulation, leading to plaque and tartar build up.
Crooked teeth do not necessarily mean that tartar will form, they are just harder to clean than well aligned teeth. Even if you have crooked teeth, if you take the time and care to floss and brush properly every day, you can easily keep tartar from forming on your teeth.
How is tartar removed? Can I prevent tartar?
While plaque is very easy to remove on your own with proper brushing and flossing, tartar cannot be removed except by a dental professional. They have the tools and expertise necessary to safely remove tartar buildup from your teeth and below the gum line. It is important not to try to remove tartar on your own using metal tools because you could end up causing damage to tooth enamel and delicate gum tissue.
Preventing tartar is easy! It is as simple as practicing good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth for at least two minutes at least twice a day using a soft bristle toothbrush and a toothpaste containing fluoride. You should also floss at least once a day to prevent buildup between teeth. I'm at your intake of sugary and starchy foods and take care to at least rinse your mouth out after eating. You might also consider chewing sugar-free gum after meals and snacks when you are not able to brush!
Visiting your dentist at least twice a year is also vital to the health of your teeth and gums. Tartar can form below the gum line where you cannot see it and cause all sorts of issues but your dental hygienist can make sure all tartar is removed and help keep your smile bright and healthy!