Tartar: Causes, Impacts, and How to Overcome It

Tartar, or medically known as dental calculus, is hardened dental plaque due to the accumulation of bacteria, food debris, and minerals from saliva. Tartar usually forms on the surface of the teeth, especially near the gum line. Unfortunately, toothbrushing alone cannot remove tartar. Tartar that is left continuously without being cleaned can trigger various more serious oral health problems.

Causes of Tartar

Tartar forms when dental plaque is not cleaned properly. This plaque comes from a combination of oral bacteria and food debris that sticks to the surface of the teeth. Plaque that is left and not cleaned will mix with minerals from saliva and harden into tartar.

Other factors that can accelerate the formation of tartar include:

1. Bad habits in maintaining oral hygiene, such as rarely brushing your teeth or flossing.
2. Consumption of foods high in sugar and carbohydrates, which support bacterial growth.
3. Smoking.

Impact of Tartar

Tartar not only interferes with appearance and causes bad breath, but can also affect overall oral health, such as gingivitis. Some of the negative impacts include:

1. Gingivitis. Tartar that builds up on the gum line can cause irritation and inflammation of the gums.
2. Periodontal disease. Gingivitis that is left untreated can develop into a more serious disease, damage the supporting tissue of the teeth, and even cause loose or loose teeth.
3. Bad breath. Bacteria that collect in tartar can cause bad breath.
4. Dental caries. Bacteria around tartar can damage the enamel or outer layer of the teeth and can cause cavities.

How to Overcome and Prevent Tartar

The formation of tartar can be prevented by maintaining oral hygiene by:

1. Brushing your teeth at least 2 (two) times a day with fluoride toothpaste
2. Using dental floss to clean between your teeth
3. Rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash

In addition, reducing the consumption of sweet foods and drinks can also prevent the formation of tartar because sugar deposits can trigger plaque formation. Regular dental check-ups are also highly recommended every 6 (six) months to prevent more serious dental problems.

As for how to overcome tartar, it can only be done through a scaling procedure, where tartar is cleaned with a special tool carried out by a professional dentist.

By maintaining regular oral hygiene and consulting a dentist, you can prevent the formation of tartar and maintain healthy teeth and gums. Pay attention to early signs, such as red or easily bleeding gums, so that they can be treated immediately before they become a major problem.

Lambung Mangkurat Medical Center (LMMC) opens dental health services at the Banjarbaru and Banjarmasin clinics. Dental health services that are opened range from consultations, dental examinations, tartar cleaning, tooth fillings, to root canal treatment.