About Dental Tartar Removal

What is Dental Tartar Removal? 

• Tartar removal is the process of thoroughly cleaning the tartar that accumulates between teeth.
• Dental calculus (tartar) forms when bacteria between teeth harden minerals derived from saliva.
• This condition cannot be resolved by brushing; it must be cleaned by a dentist using an instrument called a cavitron.
  

Why Does Dental Tartar Form - What Are the Causes?

• If adequate oral hygiene is not maintained, tartar can easily build up in patients who do not brush or floss regularly.
• Smoking, alcohol, or tobacco use 
• Excessive consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods 
• Lack of regular checks
• Patients undergoing orthodontic treatment also develop tartar buildup due to the difficulty of cleaning their teeth caused by braces.
• Finally, some patients have saliva that contains excess minerals, which increases tartar formation.

Why is dental calculus removal performed?

• Dental scaling is recommended by dentists to be done at least twice a year, not for aesthetic reasons, but purely for health reasons.
• To prevent gum disease, tartar can build up and cause inflammation (gingivitis), which, if left untreated, can lead to periodontitis, causing gum recession and eventually bone loss.
• To prevent bad breath
• In some patients with excessive tartar, chronic bad breath (halitosis) is very common, and in this case, tartar removal becomes extremely important.
• For cleaner and brighter teeth, aesthetic polishing, also known as buffing, gives teeth a shine after tartar removal.
• In general, oral health is linked to other bodily health issues such as heart disease and diabetes, and helps minimize the risk of developing these diseases.

When and how often should dental scaling be done?

• It is recommended that this be done twice a year by specialist physicians.
• If you have undergone orthodontic treatment, are a heavy smoker or alcohol user, or have had treatment for gum disease, the cleaning interval can be reduced to every 3 months with a doctor's check-up.
  

Who should have dental scaling? How is it done?

• Recommended for all patients with a high concentration of dental plaque.
• Pregnant individuals can also easily have the procedure done. 
• Patients who have had gum disease need to be extra careful.
• First, the dentist examines the inside of the mouth and then removes tartar without damaging the teeth using a cavitron.
• The dentist uses manual instruments (curetta, scaler) to clean any debris that he or she cannot reach.
• The polishing process begins, where the tooth surfaces are polished using a special toothpaste and toothbrush.
• For patients with sensitivity, fluoride application can be done, and it also prevents the formation of cavities in the teeth.
• Dental scaling takes approximately 30 minutes on average.

When and how often should dental scaling be done? What precautions should be taken after the procedure? What are the side effects?

• During the first 24 hours, caution should be exercised with hot and cold foods and drinks, and within 48 hours, foods and drinks containing artificial colors should be avoided.
• Gum bleeding and sensitivity may occur; this is quite normal.
• Side effects may include sensitivity, but this is not a permanent sensitivity.
• After tartar removal, the spaces between your teeth may widen, and you may feel a little different. 
• In conclusion, tartar removal, when performed regularly, is beneficial for long-term health rather than purely aesthetic reasons.