At Chrysanth Dental, we understand the concern when you notice tartar breaking off teeth. While it might seem like a positive sign that the tartar buildup is coming loose, this situation actually requires immediate professional attention. Today, we’ll explore why tartar breaking off teeth can be problematic and when you should seek help from a dental professional.
Understanding Tartar and Its Formation
Before we delve into why tartar breaking off teeth is concerning, let’s understand what tartar actually is. Dental calculus, commonly known as tartar, is essentially hardened plaque that forms on your tooth surfaces. When dental plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it combines with minerals in your saliva to form a hard, crusty deposit of calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate.
How Does Tartar Form?
The process of tartar formation begins with plaque bacteria accumulating on your teeth. This sticky film of bacteria feeds on food particles, especially sugary and starchy foods, producing acids that can lead to tooth decay. When plaque isn’t removed through good oral hygiene practices, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.
The Dangers of Tartar Breaking Off Teeth
When you notice tartar breaking off teeth, it might seem tempting to help the process along. However, we strongly advise against this for several reasons:
1. Risk of Damaging Tooth Enamel
– Tartar deposits often become firmly attached to your tooth enamel
– Forcing tartar off can damage the actual tooth structure
– This may lead to increased tooth sensitivity and vulnerability to decay
2. Potential Gum Damage
– Tartar often extends below the gum line
– Attempting to remove it yourself can cause:
– Bleeding gums
– Gum recession
– Gum irritation
– Advanced gum disease
3. Hidden Dental Issues
– When tartar breaks naturally, it might indicate:
– Underlying tooth decay
– Periodontal disease
– Weakened tooth structure
– Poor oral hygiene issues
Warning Signs: When to Seek Professional Help
You should schedule an appointment with our dental hygienist immediately if you:
– Notice tartar breaking off naturally
– Experience bleeding gums alongside tartar breaking
– Feel increased tooth sensitivity
– Observe bad breath that won’t go away
– See visible tartar buildup
– Have pain or discomfort around affected areas
The Professional Approach to Tartar Removal
Only a dentist or dental hygienist can safely remove tartar through professional cleaning techniques. Here’s what you can expect:
Professional Cleaning Process
1. Assessment
– Examination of tartar accumulation
– Evaluation of gum health
– Checking for signs of tooth decay
2. Deep Cleaning
– Scaling to remove tartar deposits
– Root planning when necessary
– Professional plaque removal
– Polishing tooth surfaces
3. Preventive Care
– Application of fluoride toothpaste treatments
– Advice on proper brushing techniques
– Guidance on plaque removal efficacy
Preventing Tartar Build-Up: Our Professional Recommendations
Daily Oral Hygiene Routine
To maintain good dental hygiene and prevent tartar buildup, we recommend:
1. Regular Brushing
– Brush at least twice daily
– Use fluoride toothpaste
– Consider tartar control toothpaste
– Pay attention to all tooth surfaces
2. Proper Flossing
– Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
– Focus on areas near the gum line
– Use a proper flossing technique
3. Additional Measures
– Use antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria
– Consider incorporating baking soda occasionally
– Avoid excessive sugary foods
Professional Care
Regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining optimal oral health:
– Schedule dental cleanings every six months
– Have professional examinations to catch issues early
– Maintain open communication with your dental professional
The Link Between Tartar and Gum Diseases
Tartar buildup significantly increases your risk of developing gum diseases. Here’s how:
1. Early Stage: Gingivitis
– Bleeding gums
– Gum irritation
– Mild inflammation
– Reversible with proper care
2. Advanced Stage: Periodontal Disease
– Deep pockets between teeth and gums
– Potential tooth loss
– Damage to the tooth’s root
– Requires extensive professional treatment
Long-term Consequences of Untreated Tartar
Ignoring tartar breaking off teeth can lead to serious dental health issues:
1. Structural Problems
– Weakened tooth enamel
– Increased risk of a chipped tooth
– Permanent damage to tooth structure
2. Gum Health Issues
– Progressive gum recession
– Chronic bleeding gums
– Advanced periodontal disease
3. Overall Oral Health Impact
– Persistent bad breath
– Oral bacteria proliferation
– Increased risk of tooth loss
Contact Us Today To Schedule A Professional Cleaning and Examination
When you notice tartar breaking off teeth, it’s crucial to seek professional help promptly. At Chrysanth Dental, we’re committed to providing exceptional dental care and helping you maintain optimal oral health. Remember, while good oral hygiene practices at home are essential, regular dental cleanings and professional care are vital for preventing and addressing tartar-related issues.
Don’t wait until tartar breaking becomes a serious problem. Contact us today to schedule a professional cleaning and examination. Together, we can ensure your smile stays healthy and bright for years to come.
For more information about our services or to schedule an appointment, please contact Chrysanth Dental. Your oral health is our priority.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tartar Breaking Off Teeth
Q1: Why is tartar breaking off my teeth naturally?
Tartar breaking off teeth can occur for several reasons:
– Weakening of the bond between tartar and tooth surface
– Impact of hard foods
– Advanced gum disease-causing loosening of deposits
– Excessive tartar buildup creates unstable layers
However, natural breaking of tartar isn’t a good sign and requires immediate professional attention to prevent damage to your tooth enamel and gums.
Q2: Can I remove loose tartar at home?
No, we strongly advise against trying to remove tartar at home, even if it seems loose. Only a dental professional should remove tartar because:
– Amateur removal can damage tooth enamel
– You might accidentally cause gum recession
– There’s a risk of infection
– You could overlook underlying dental issues
– Professional tools and techniques are required for safe removal
Q3: How quickly does tartar form after professional cleaning?
The rate of tartar formation varies among individuals, but typically:
– Plaque can start forming within 24 hours of cleaning
– Plaque can begin hardening into tartar within 24-72 hours
– Visible tartar buildup may occur within 2-3 weeks without proper oral hygiene
– Regular brushing and flossing significantly slow this process
– Using tartar control toothpaste can help prevent rapid formation
Q4: What’s the difference between black and white tartar?
Different coloured tartar deposits indicate:
White or Yellow Tartar:
– Usually appears above the gum line
– Newer tartar formation
– Primarily composed of calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate
Black or Brown Tartar:
– Often found below the gum line
– May indicate bleeding gums
– Can be stained by tobacco use or certain foods
– Typically, older deposits require professional cleaning
Q5: How much does professional tartar removal cost?
The cost of professional tartar removal varies depending on:
– The extent of tartar buildup
– Whether deep cleaning is required
– Your location and dental provider
– Insurance coverage
– Whether additional treatments are needed
At Chrysanth Dental, we offer competitive pricing and various payment options. Contact our office for specific pricing information and to discuss payment plans that suit your needs.