If a person does not prevent tartar buildup on their teeth, or does not bother to remove it once it is formed, they can suffer serious problems like periodontitis or permanent loss of teeth. Seeing a dentist in Laurel MS is vital in helping you remove tartar buildup and twice-yearly visits are perfect preventive measures. Dentists tell every patient that prevention is the best way to stay out of the dentist chair. However, what happens when tartar has become so bad that a dentist visit is warranted?
There are two types of tartar: Supragingival and Subgingival. Supragingival (above the gum line) is the visible yellow or brown deposits which form on the tooth surface. Subgingival (below the gum line) is the tartar in periodontal pockets which form between the tooth and gum. The subgingival calculus is much more dangerous, because it promotes faster growth plate and they are often not seen until problems arise. Tartar is dangerous because it encourages the growth of bacteria that attack teeth and gums. If you do not have tartar removed, sooner or later you will see gingivitis (gum inflammation) attack. When your immune system is not able to eliminate these bacteria, periodontitis occurs. Periodontitis seriously affects the tissues that support your teeth and, if untreated, leads to the ultimate loss of teeth.
Tartar is removed through dental cleaning by a dental hygienist or dentist. Because tartar is a very hard substance and is strongly adhered to the teeth, dentists must use the proper equipment to break the tartar away without damaging the enamel. It is relatively easy to remove larger pieces of tartar that are above the gum, but completely removing all debris and stains that are left takes practice. Removing tartar that is located below the gum is more complicated. In some cases, it will be necessary to perform a dental curettage, a procedure that goes deeper in the cleaning process, something of which may require the use of anesthesia.
The best way to prevent the formation of tartar is to clean your teeth properly at least twice a day, use floss daily and visit the dentist or for regular cleanings (once or twice a year). Note that plaque does not accumulate in the same way in all people, so your dentist Laurel MS, will tell you how often you should visit the practice.
