How Does Tartar Form?
Tartar formation begins when food debris and bacteria collected in the mouth interact with saliva to form a soft layer (plaque). When plaque is not removed by regular brushing and flossing, calcium and phosphate ions, which are abundant in saliva, mineralize the bacterial matrix in the plaque. This mineralization process begins within a few days and the first hardening can be observed within 48 hours. Over time, plaque turns into calculus, which adheres tightly to the tooth surface and can only be removed by dental intervention.
What is Tartar Removal?
Scaling is the process of removing hardened stones and plaque accumulated on the teeth by the dentist or dental hygienist using special tools. In this process, the calculus is first loosened by vibration using tools such as ultrasonic scaler, manual toothpick and curette, and then completely removed from the tooth surface with water spraying and manual cleaning steps. After cleaning, polishing is performed to smooth the tooth surface, which reduces plaque build-up and makes teeth look both healthier and brighter.
How Often Should Tartar Cleaning Be Performed?
In general, scaling is recommended to be performed every 6 months in healthy individuals; however, this frequency may vary from person to person. People with poor oral hygiene, heavy smokers, high consumption of sugary foods or beverages accumulate tartar faster and may need to have it cleaned at intervals of 3-4 months. In addition, patients with gum problems or high risk of gingivitis (gingivitis) should be checked more frequently and should go for cleaning in 3-month intervals according to the physician's guidance. Regular check-ups help to remove tartar in a timely manner and reduce the risk of gum problems and caries.
Which Methods are Used For Tartar Removal?
The most common methods of scaling;
- Ultrasonic devices (use of scalar): It is the most commonly used method. By creating high-frequency vibrations, it breaks the calculus into small pieces and removes these pieces from the tooth surface by spraying water. It provides both fast and effective cleaning.
- Scraping with manual instruments (curette and scaler): In this process, which is performed by the dentist's manual skill, the stones remaining in hard-to-reach areas are carefully scraped, especially with the ultrasonic device. It is also preferred for cleaning under the gums.
- Polishing (tooth polishing): The tooth surface is smoothed after cleaning. By polishing the teeth with polishing paste and a rotating brush, plaque build-up is delayed and surface stains are removed at the same time.
- Air polishing: Stains and thin plaque layer on the teeth are removed by spraying a mixture of high-pressure air and water with baking soda or special powders. It is a very effective method for aesthetic cleaning.
- Laser-assisted cleaning: Some high-tech clinics use laser devices, especially for stubborn calculus and bacteria below the gum line. This method can also speed up healing
Powders containing carbonate or erythritol are sprayed at high pressure onto the tooth surface to remove stains and fine plaque.
What Happens If We Don't Get Scaling Cleaning?
When scaling is neglected, tartar can move below the gum line and cause gingivitis (gingivitis) and progressive gingival recession (periodontitis). Gum recession leads to exposure of the tooth root and shaking of the teeth, paving the way for early tooth loss. In addition, calculus becomes a shelter for bacteria, exacerbating bad breath and increasing the risk of caries. Prolonged presence of calculus, as well as systemic diseases (e.g. diabetes, heart disease), can trigger inflammation and negatively affect overall health.
What are the Aesthetic Benefits of Scaling?
Scaling helps teeth look brighter and whiter by removing yellow-brown colored stones and stains accumulated on the teeth. Since the polishing process removes micro-roughness on the tooth surface, the teeth reflect light more evenly and the smile becomes more aesthetic.
In addition, regular cleaning contributes to the gums turning a healthy pink color; inflammatory redness and swelling of the gums are reduced. Aesthetically improved teeth and gums increase self-confidence and support a positive impression in social life.
How to Clean Dental Calculus for Children?
Although tartar formation in children is rare compared to adults, plaque accumulation can be observed in children who do not have proper tooth brushing habits. When scaling for children, first of all, explanations and a soft approach are adopted to make them comfortable.
The dentist gently removes tartar using fine-tipped manual instruments and a low-frequency ultrasonic scaler. Short sessions are preferred to increase the comfort of children during the procedure and fluoride applications can be made at the end of the session to protect tooth enamel. Parents are also guided to teach their children the correct brushing techniques.
What Should Be Considered After Scaling?
Hot and cold sensitivity may be experienced for the first 24 hours after scaling; therefore, it is beneficial to avoid hard and extremely hot and cold foods. The gums may become slightly tender or bleed slightly after cleaning; this is normal and resolves spontaneously within a few days.
You should ensure the protection of your tooth enamel by using fluoride toothpaste at intervals recommended by your doctor. You should also continue the habit of proper brushing at least twice a day, daily flossing and mouthwash to delay the formation of tartar after cleaning. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings will also protect your oral health in the long term.
