What is calculus on teeth? Most people don’t expect to see the word calculus outside of a maths classroom, yet calculus on teeth is a real problem that needs to be properly addressed to maintain oral hygiene. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about calculus on teeth, including;

  • What it is
  • How it affects your teeth
  • How we can help you prevent and remove it

What is calculus?

Calculus (or tartar, as it’s more commonly known) is a hard, yellowish or brownish deposit that forms on the surface of teeth. It is caused by the mineralisation of dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help prevent the formation of calculus on teeth and ensure that any existing buildup is removed before it causes further damage to oral health.

How does calculus form on teeth?

When plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden and turn into calculus over time. Calculus can be both aesthetically unpleasant and harmful to oral health, as it can irritate the gums, cause bad breath, and contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.

How does calculus differ from plaque?

Unlike plaque, which can be removed through regular brushing and flossing, calculus cannot be removed by simple brushing alone. It requires professional cleaning by a dental hygienist or dentist using specialised tools. That is why it’s important to exercise proper dental hygiene through regular brushing and flossing, as well as get your teeth checked regularly for plaque before it turns to calculus.

Consequences of calculus buildup

Calculus buildup leads to a variety of dental problems if left unchecked. Below, we’ve listed some of the dental conditions that can be caused by calculus buildup.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a common form of gum disease that is caused by inflammation of the gum tissue. One of the major causes of gingivitis is the buildup of calculus on the teeth and gums. This can cause the gums to become red, swollen, and tender. Over time, the bacteria in calculus can multiply and release toxins that further irritate the gums, leading to inflammation and damage to the gum tissue.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports teeth. It is caused when gingivitis goes untreated, as the bacteria and toxins produced by the plaque and calculus buildup penetrates deeper into the gum tissue, causing the tissue to pull away from the teeth and form pockets. As the infection spreads, it can destroy the bone that supports the teeth, leading to tooth loss.

Tooth decay

Tooth decay can be caused by calculus buildup in several ways. 

For example, calculus can trap additional plaque and bacteria, making it more difficult to remove with regular brushing and flossing. Over time, the bacteria in both the plaque and calculus can produce acid that can erode the tooth enamel, leading to cavities and tooth decay. 

Additionally, the calculus buildup can irritate the gums, causing them to become inflamed and swollen. This can lead to gingivitis and periodontitis, which can also contribute to tooth decay and tooth loss.

Bad breath

Bad breath (a.k.a. halitosis) can be caused by a variety of factors, including calculus buildup. .

First, calculus can trap bacteria and food particles between the teeth and gums, leading to the growth of odour-causing bacteria. This can result in persistent bad breath, even after brushing or using mouthwash.

Second, calculus buildup can irritate the gums and cause inflammation, which can also contribute to bad breath. As gum disease progresses, the bacteria can produce more sulphur compounds, leading to even stronger halitosis.

Third, calculus buildup can make it more difficult to properly clean the teeth and gums, which can exacerbate existing oral health problems and increase the risk of further damage to oral health.

Stained teeth

Calculus buildup on teeth can cause staining because it can trap and hold onto pigments from food, drinks, and other sources. As a result, the surface of the calculus may become discoloured and appear yellowish or brownish in colour. This can also make it harder to remove surface stains on the teeth through regular brushing and flossing, which can contribute to further discoloration and staining over time.

Furthermore, calculus buildup can also contribute to the development of other oral health problems that result in tooth discolouration, such as gum disease and tooth decay. As the gums become inflamed and may recede, more of the tooth’s surface is exposed, causing it to appear darker or discoloured.

Sensitivity

When calculus builds up on the surface of the teeth, it can create a rough surface that can irritate and inflame the gums. This inflammation can cause the gums to recede, exposing the sensitive tooth roots and causing increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.

Bacteria in the mouth that is held by calculus can produce acid when they break down sugars and carbohydrates, which can eat away at the enamel of the teeth and cause cavities. When the enamel is weakened or eroded, the underlying dentin layer can become exposed, leading to increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, as well as sweet or acidic foods.

Additionally, calculus buildup can make it more difficult to remove plaque from the surface of the teeth, which can contribute to the development of gum disease that causes inflammation and damage to the gums and underlying bone tissue, leading to tooth sensitivity.

Damage to dental work

Dental restorations such as fillings, crowns, and bridges can become weakened or damaged by the constant pressure and force of calculus buildup. The accumulation of calculus around the margins of the restorations can lead to the formation of gaps, which can compromise the strength and stability of the restoration.

Additionally, peri-implantitis is a condition that can occur when calculus buildup around dental implants causes inflammation and infection in the surrounding gum tissue. If left untreated, it can lead to bone loss and implant failure.

How can I prevent and remove calculus from my own teeth

Here are some tips for preventing and removing calculus:

  • Brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day, using a fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the back molars and along the gum line.
  • Flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gum line, where calculus can form.
  • Antiseptic mouthwashes can help kill bacteria that cause plaque and calculus buildup.
  • A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help promote good oral health and prevent the buildup of calculus.
  • Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help to remove any calculus buildup and prevent further accumulation.

How does Greenvale Dental Group remove calculus build up?

At Greenvale Dental Group, we use a procedure called scaling to remove calculus buildup from the surfaces of teeth. Here’s how dentists typically use scaling to remove calculus:

  • First, we will assess the extent of the calculus buildup and determine the best course of action for removing it.
  • We will then use a specialised tool called a scaler to carefully scrape away the hardened deposits from the surfaces of your teeth.
  • Once the calculus has been removed,we will use a polishing tool to smooth and polish the surfaces of your teeth. Polishing helps to remove any residual stains and create a smooth surface that is less likely to attract plaque and calculus.
  • Depending on the extent of the calculus buildup, you may need to schedule follow-up appointments for additional scaling or periodontal maintenance.

Scaling can be an uncomfortable procedure, especially if you have sensitive teeth or gums. However, we can use local anaesthesia to numb the area and make the procedure more comfortable. It’s important to follow good oral hygiene habits and visit your dentist regularly to prevent the buildup of calculus and ensure the long-term health of your teeth and gums.

How do I get effective treatment for calculus build up from Greenvale Dental Group?

If you’re looking for a dentist who can help you get effective treatment for your calculus buildup, contact us at Greenvale Dental Group and we will provide you with a modern, caring approach to your dental health.