You can't effectively remove calculus (tartar) from your teeth at home; professional dental cleaning is required.
Here's why and what's involved:
What is Calculus?
Calculus, also known as tartar, is hardened dental plaque. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If plaque isn't removed regularly through brushing and flossing, it can mineralize and harden into calculus.
Why Can't You Remove Calculus at Home?
- Hardened Mineral Deposits: Calculus is firmly attached to the tooth surface and is very hard due to its mineral composition.
- Regular Tools Ineffective: A standard toothbrush, floss, or even interdental brushes aren't strong enough to break down and remove calculus. Attempts to do so can damage your gums and teeth.
Professional Dental Cleaning: The Solution
A dental professional (dentist or dental hygienist) uses specialized tools to safely and effectively remove calculus. The procedure is commonly known as a "scaling and root planing" or a "prophylaxis" (prophy) cleaning.
Here's what a professional cleaning typically involves:
- Ultrasonic Scaler: This device uses high-frequency vibrations and water to break up and remove large deposits of calculus.
- Dental Hand Instruments (Scalers and Curettes): These are hand-held instruments with specifically shaped blades used to scrape away calculus from the tooth surface, including below the gumline.
- Polishing: After scaling, the teeth are polished to remove stains and smooth the surfaces. This helps prevent plaque from easily adhering to the teeth.
- Fluoride Treatment (Optional): A fluoride treatment may be applied to strengthen the enamel and help prevent future decay.
Preventing Calculus Buildup
While you can't remove existing calculus yourself, you can prevent it from forming or reduce its accumulation through:
- Regular Brushing: Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time using fluoride toothpaste.
- Daily Flossing: Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and along the gumline.
- Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can help kill bacteria in your mouth and reduce plaque formation.
- Professional Dental Cleanings: Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings (usually every six months) to remove plaque and calculus buildup.
- Dietary Considerations: Limiting sugary and starchy foods can help reduce the amount of plaque formed.
In summary, while good oral hygiene helps prevent calculus, once it forms, you need a dental professional to remove it safely and effectively.
