Ever noticed rough, yellowish buildup near your gums that just won’t budge no matter how hard you brush? That’s dental or teeth calculus, and you’re not alone. It’s more common than you think, and it can lead to other oral health issues like periodontal disease.
Dental calculus removal is something many Aussies eventually need. When plaque hardens over time, it turns into this stubborn tartar that brushing and flossing can’t get rid of. At Munno Para Dental Clinic, we see many patients in need of tartar removal. The sooner you tackle it early, the better protected your teeth will be.
Let’s learn more about dental calculus, why you shouldn’t ignore it, and how you can remove it.
What is Dental Calculus?
Dental calculus, also known as tartar, is hardened plaque that sticks to your teeth and below the gumline. It forms when plaque (the sticky film of bacteria) isn’t removed properly and mixes with minerals in your saliva.
Think of it like a limescale in your kettle. If you ignore it too long, it builds up fast and wreaks havoc on your teeth and gums. Unfortunately, once it hardens, only a dental professional can remove calculus.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Teeth Calculus
Ignoring teeth calculus is like ignoring rust on your car. The problem only gets worse with time, and it may lead to:
- Gum Disease (Gingivitis and Periodontitis): When teeth calculus builds up along your gum line, it causes your gums to swell and bleed. That’s the early stage of gingivitis. If you don’t treat it, it can turn into periodontitis, where the gums pull away from your teeth. This leads to infection, pain, and even bone loss.
- Bad Breath (Halitosis): Tartar traps bacteria that give off a bad smell. Even if you brush and use mouthwash, it won’t go away until the tartar is removed. If your breath still smells after brushing, calculus could be the reason.
- Receding Gums: Calculus irritates the gums, causing them to slowly shrink back or “recede.” When this happens, your teeth may look longer and feel more sensitive. Receding gums also leave your tooth roots exposed, which increases your risk of decay.
- Cavities Near the Gumline: Tartar makes it harder to clean around your gum line. This can cause plaque to sneak under the gums and eat away at your tooth enamel, leading to cavities that are hard to spot and harder to treat.
- Loose or Lost Teeth: Over time, gum disease caused by calculus weakens the bone that holds your teeth in place. If left untreated, your teeth can loosen and even fall out. It’s one of the main reasons adults lose teeth in Australia.
How to Remove Calculus from Teeth
As mentioned, dental calculus removal can be tricky. The harder the plaque, the more challenging it is to remove it. Still, here are your options:
1. Professional Scale and Clean
This is the safest and most effective way to remove calculus. You can visit the nearest dentist, who will most likely use ultrasonic scalers and hand tools to gently remove calculus from your teeth and under the gums.
The process is usually painless and leaves your teeth feeling fresh and smooth. After you remove calculus, be sure to clean your teeth every six months. Regular dental checkups keep the tartar and other oral health problems away.
Best for: Everyone, especially if it’s been a while since your last dental visit.
2. Airflow Dental Cleaning
This tartar removal method combines water, air, and fine powder to clean teeth, especially around tricky spots like braces, implants, or under the gums. It’s great for stain removal and comfort.
Best for: Gentle, thorough cleaning with less scraping.
3. Avoid DIY Hacks
At home tartar removal might seem tempting, but it can easily damage your enamel and gums. Remember that TikTok tools and sharp picks aren’t safe. Stick to daily brushing and flossing, and leave dental calculus removal to the professionals.
How to Prevent Calculus Buildup
Prevention is better than cure, and although you can’t fully stop calculus from forming, taking these tips can help slow it down:
- Use a soft-bristled brush to brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss once a day as it removes plaque between your teeth.
- Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Avoid smoking because it accelerates teeth calculus.
- Eat a balanced diet and avoid sugary and starchy foods as they feed plaque bacteria.
- Book regular dental checkups to remove calculus and maintain your oral health.
Let’s Keep Your Smile on Track
A beautiful smile is as much about your look as it’s about your oral health. While you can’t stop calculus, with proper care and regular checkups, you can keep it under control.
At Munno Para Dental Clinic, we’ve helped thousands in Smithfield and nearby suburbs maintain bright, healthy smiles for over 20 years. Need help with dental calculus removal? Come see us, we’re here to make your next visit stress-free and effective.
Contact us to book your appointment today.
