In Yorba Linda, CA dental health is considered to be just as important and even perhaps more so than other parts of the country. Dental calculus, or tartar, is a common dental problem that can affect oral health. In this blog post, we will go over what dental calculus is and how it forms as well as discuss the health risks that come with having unresolved hard tartar on your teeth along with preventative options of treatment here by a dentist in Yorba Linda, CA.

What is Dental Calculus?

The dental calculus is nothing more than tartar which has hardened on teeth surfaces. Plaque is a colorless, sticky film of that constantly forms on your teeth. Plaque, once not removed by daily brushing and flossing, can mineralize with the help of saliva to become calculus. Plaque can be removed with regular brushing and flossing, but calculus is a hard crusty deposit that cannot be wiped away.

How Do We Have Dental Calculus?

A multi-step process is involved in the formation of dental calculus:

• Plaque: The first offender in the line-up, it all starts with dental plaque: a mixture of bacteria byproducts (acid), food residue, and saliva.
• Mineralization (after 24-72 hours): If the plaque is not removed, minerals from saliva like calcium and phosphate start to accrue inside the biofilm.
• Calcification: With time, these minerals will cause the plaque to become hardened and calculus.

Potential Health Impacts

Without treatment, several consequences are possible with dental calculus:

• Causing Gum Disease: Calculus can irritate the gums causing inflammation known as gingivitis. In chronic cases, untreated gingivitis will develop into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to loss of teeth.
• Tooth Decay: The acids created by bacteria in the calculus can break down enamel, leading to cavities.
• The Bad Smell: It enables pathogenic bacteria and breath that are bad which can produce sulfuric compounds inside your mouth (aka halitosis).
• Tooth Discoloration: Some foods and drinks can stain the calculus, making your teeth discolored.

Prevention Strategies

Keeping dental calculus at bay is very important for proper oral care. Best prevention practices include:

• Proper Brushing: Twice a day, brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste. An electric toothbrush is more effective at removing plaque than a manual one.
• Flossing: Use dental floss to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
• Rinse your mouth: Rinse the area with an over-the-counter antimicrobial rinse which can help prevent germs that cause plaque.
• Healthy Diet: Avoid sugary and starchy foods that boost plaque formation. Consume a well-balanced diet that is high in fruits, vegetables and dairy
• Frequent Dental Visits: Schedule professional cleanings and examinations with your Yorba Linda dentist at least twice a year. 

Treatment Options

• Scaling and Root Planing: This deep-cleaning procedure is for more advanced cases of calculus buildup. Scaling removes calculus (tartar) from the teeth while root planing smooths tooth roots to help gums re-attach with teeth.
• Laser Therapy: Even though laser therapy is still not as common, some of the most forward-thinking dental practices in Yorba Linda now provide this to get rid of inflammation and bacterial complications stemming from periodontitis.

Although common in dentistry, dental calculus can be a serious threat factor to the well-being of your teeth and gums. Residents of Yorba Linda, CA can maintain healthier brighter smiles by practicing good oral hygiene and having routine dental check-ups along with professional treatment if necessary. To learn more about dental calculus removal or to schedule a professional cleaning, contact your local Yorba Linda dentist today.