Calcium buildup on teeth can be a serious issue. Not only does it make your teeth look unsightly, but it has also been linked to more serious health problems such as periodontal disease. In this article, we will discuss the causes of calcium buildup on teeth and how to prevent it from happening.
What is Calcium Buildup?
Calcium buildup on teeth, also known as tartar, is a condition where calcium deposits form on the surface of your teeth. It occurs when bacteria in your mouth mix with calcium phosphate in your saliva and harden. Tartar can range in color from yellow to brown and is usually found on the back of your teeth near the gum line. It can also cause bad breath (halitosis) as well as trauma to your gums causing them to bleed.
Additionally, these buildups are porous in nature and can absorb food particles and other bacteria which leads to damage to your tooth and gums.
There are two types of calcium buildup: supragingival and subgingival. Supragingival calcium buildup is tartar that forms on the visible surfaces of your teeth. Subgingival calcium buildup is tartar that forms beneath the gum line.
What Causes Calcium Buildup?
There are several factors that can contribute to calcium buildup on teeth, including:
- Poor oral hygiene: If you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque can build up on your teeth and harden into tartar.
- Not visiting dentists regularly: You should see your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning. Here, they will be able to remove any build-up before it gets bad. If you don’t, tartar can build up on your teeth and lead to calcium buildup.
- Diet: Eating a diet high in sugar can contribute to calcium buildup on teeth. This is because the bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugar and grow in this environment. More bacteria means more calcium buildup
- Certain medical conditions, systemic diseases, and prescription medications: Some medical conditions, such as diabetes and kidney disease, can cause calcium deposits to form on your teeth.
How to Prevent Calcium Buildup
The best way to prevent calcium buildup is to practice good oral hygiene. This means brushing your teeth twice a day with a toothpaste that contains fluoride and flossing daily. You should also see your dentist regularly for professional cleanings.
It is also important to keep up proper eating habits. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding sugary drinks and snacks can help prevent calcium buildup on teeth.
How Dentists Treat Calcium Buildup
If calcium buildup is already present on your teeth, your dentist or hygenist can remove it with a professional cleaning. During this procedure, your dentist will use special tools, such as scalers, to scrape away the tartar from your teeth. In some cases, a dentist may use an ultrasonic scaler, which uses vibrations to remove the tartar.
After the tartar is removed, your dentist will polish your teeth to smooth out any rough spots.
Preventing calcium buildup is the best way to keep your teeth healthy and free of tartar. Practice good oral hygiene habits and see your dentist regularly for professional cleanings.
Disclaimer
The contents of this website, such as text, graphics, images, and other material are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be substituted for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing on this website constitutes the practice of medicine, law or any other regulated profession.
No two mouths are the same, and each oral situation is unique. As such, it isn’t possible to give comprehensive advice or diagnose oral conditions based on articles alone. The best way to ensure you’re getting the best dental care possible is to visit a dentist in person for an examination and consultation.
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