Difference Between Tartar and Calculus

Caring for clean teeth involves more than just daily brushing and flossing. Two dental issues that are often confused are tartar and calculus. Many people ask if calculus and tartar are the same thing. The short answer is no; they are not the same, although they are related. It is essential to know the difference between tartar and calculus and identify them early to prevent associated oral health problems.

Our family dentist in Locust, near Midland, Oakboro, Stanfield, and Mint Hill, NC, Dr. Wael Zeitouni, provides general dental care and will explain tartar and calculus, including their symptoms, prevention, and effective methods for removal.

What is Tartar?

Tartar is the hardened plaque that forms when food particles and bacteria are not adequately cleaned from the teeth. When plaque is mineralized, it becomes tartar, which can not be removed with brushing alone.

Tartar on teeth can have a yellow or brown color and accumulates on the gum lines. This may eventually accumulate to irritate the gums, facilitating cavities, and hindering daily brushing. Tartar can lead to gum disease when left untreated and requires the services of a professional to remove it.

What is Calculus?

As illustrated by research published on PubMed, dental calculus is a later stage of hardened tartar that continues to accumulate above and below the gum line.

Unlike tartar, which primarily resides at the surface, calculus can develop in the pockets around the teeth and be more challenging to control. A calculus bridge might arise when the teeth are under some continuous coverage of heavy deposits. At this stage, only special tools in the hands of a dentist can remove the dental calculus.

What are the Symptoms of Tartar vs. Calculus on Teeth?

The symptoms of tartar and calculus are similar; however, calculus can lead to more serious complications. Watch out for:

Discoloration

Tartar and calculus are commonly seen on teeth in yellow, brown, or even black forms.

Rough Texture

The surface of teeth becomes irregular or gritty, and plaque is more likely to adhere.

Observable Buildup

An obvious indication of tartar teeth is the presence of tartar at the gum line. Unlike calculus, the buildup can sometimes extend deeper.

Gum inflammation and  Irritation

Both tartar and calculus are irritating to the gums, causing swelling, bleeding, and tenderness.

Bad Breath

Halitosis is common due to the presence of thriving bacteria on hardened deposits.

Receding Gums

Severe cases of calculus can lead to the gums pulling away and exposing the roots, resulting in increased tooth sensitivity.

How to Prevent Plaque and Calculus Build-Up

In the prevention of tartar and calculus, it is essential to understand that the first stage begins as plaque and should be controlled before it hardens into calculus. You can lower your risk by:

• Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day.
• Flossing at least once daily.
• Reducing sugary foods and beverages.
• Quitting smoking and tobacco intake in any form.
• Use an antibiotic mouthwash to rinse your mouth daily.
• It is recommended to have regular dental cleaning every six months.

With proper oral hygiene, you minimize the chance of needing some restorative treatments in the future.

How to Remove Calculus

Unlike the plaque, tartar can no longer be removed at home once it forms calculus. The only safe solution is professional dental cleaning. 

Scaling and root planing is a dental procedure performed by our dentist in Locust, NC, to remove deposits above and below the gum line. The removal should be early to avoid further harm to the gum and to ensure optimal oral health. 

In efforts to remove dental plaque at home, brushing your teeth with baking soda can be a mild and effective practice, complementing the use of toothpaste. Baking soda has an abrasive effect that can remove sticky stains without damaging the teeth.

Dental Exams and Cleaning in Locust, NC

Oral health is directly connected to the level of general well-being. Regular checkups offer the most effective way to prevent tartar and calculus from growing into a serious issue, and that’s why we offer dental exams and cleanings in Locust, NC, to help you maintain perfect oral hygiene. Regular dental checkups are essential for preventing gum disease and other oral health issues that can lead to more severe complications if left unchecked. 

For a reliable dentist in Locust, NC, request an appointment today to improve your oral health and alleviate any discomfort.