+351 217 228 120

Select Language

Schedule Appointment

Tartar

Tartar is hardened bacterial plaque on teeth and gums, which causes cavities, gingivitis, and bad breath, requiring professional cleaning.

Book Evaluation Appointment

What is tartar?

Tartar is the hardened bacterial plaque that forms on teeth, below the gum line and on hard surfaces of the mouth, such as dentures and implants. It results from the accumulation of bacteria, food particles, and saliva that are not removed by brushing and flossing. In addition to the aesthetic impact of its yellowish color, tartar can cause cavities, gingivitis, periodontitis, and bad breath. Its removal requires the intervention of an oral health professional.

Book Evaluation Appointment

Main Causes

The development of Tartar is generally associated with a combination of factors, among which:

Poor oral hygiene

Frequent consumption of foods and beverages high in sugar

Buildup of bacterial plaque

Reduction of saliva production

Insufficient regular dental monitoring

Book Evaluation Appointment

Possible Symptoms

The symptoms associated with the presence of hardened dental plaque can vary depending on the quantity as well as the health of the mouth, however, the most common include:

Book Evaluation Appointment

1 Visible Deposits on Teeth

Tartar is visible as hard yellowish deposits on the teeth, especially along the gum line.

2 Gum Inflammation and Bleeding

The presence of Tartar can cause inflammation of the gums, resulting in gingivitis and, in more severe situations, periodontitis. The gums may become red, swollen, and bleed easily during brushing or while using dental floss.

3 Bad Breath (Halitosis)

As the tartar is rough, the accumulation of more bacteria on this structure can promote persistent bad breath, which does not improve even with daily oral hygiene care.

4 Gum Recession

Due to its harmful contribution to gum disease, Tartar can cause gum recession, making teeth appear longer due to the gradual exposure of the tooth roots, increasing the risk of decay and dental sensitivity.

5 Tooth Sensitivity

The exposure of the roots of the teeth due to gum recession can cause sensitivity to hot and/or cold or sweet foods and beverages, as well as during brushing.

6 Dental Pain or Mobility

A consequence of tartar that is not removed is, in advanced cases of periodontitis, the teeth losing their bony support and becoming mobile, potentially even falling out.

Book Evaluation Appointment

Tartar is hardened bacterial plaque that causes cavities, gingivitis, and bad breath. If you have these symptoms, schedule an appointment for professional cleaning.

Book Evaluation Appointment

Available Treatments

The removal of tartar is essential for maintaining the health of your mouth and preventing complications. Treatment options include professional procedures performed by an oral hygienist or dentist, as well as proper oral hygiene practices at home to prevent the formation of hardened plaque.

Oral Hygiene (Prophylaxis)

During the oral hygiene consultation, the hygienist or dentist removes tartar with specialized equipment, in a procedure called scaling. At MALO CLINIC, we use Airflow technology and the GBT protocol, which remove plaque, tartar, and stains painlessly, allowing us to guide the patient on areas that need more attention in daily hygiene.

Oral Hygiene (Prophylaxis)

Use of Antibacterial Oral Elixirs

Oral antibacterial elixirs can help control bacterial plaque, reduce gum inflammation, and dental sensitivity, making these products recommended as part of an oral hygiene plan and prevention of oral problems.

Use of Antibacterial Oral Elixirs

Use of Brushes and Dental Floss

For hard-to-reach areas with the brush, particularly between the teeth and around implants, the use of interdental brushes or specific dental floss can be effective in removing plaque and preventing tartar.

Use of Brushes and Dental Floss

Root Planing and Smoothing

In cases of gingivitis or periodontitis, it may be necessary to carry out scaling and root planing. This procedure involves the removal of tartar and plaque below the gum line and the smoothing of the root surfaces of the teeth, in order to promote gum adhesion.

Root Planing and Smoothing

Good Oral Hygiene Maintenance

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste for two minutes, and floss daily are essential for removing plaque before it turns into tartar. Brushing should include the gum line and all surfaces of the teeth.

Good Oral Hygiene Maintenance

Regular Consultations with the Oral Hygienist

Visiting the oral hygienist or dentist regularly is essential for early detection and removal of tartar. It is generally recommended to have a dental hygiene check-up every six months, adjusting the frequency according to individual needs.

Regular Consultations with the Oral Hygienist

Book Evaluation Appointment

Agreements and Partnerships

MALO CLINIC has agreements and partnerships that make it easier to access treatment, under specific conditions defined by each entity. You can also choose payment facilities depending on the type of treatment.

Learn More

Agreements and Partnerships

Learn More

Agreements and Partnerships

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What causes Tartar?

The hardened bacterial plaque that forms on the teeth is caused by the mineralization of the bacterial plaque that is not removed through brushing and the use of dental floss. The plaque forms from bacteria, saliva, and food residues, and when not properly removed, it hardens and transforms into tartar.

2

How can I prevent Tartar?

Maintaining good oral hygiene, which includes brushing teeth at least twice a day, using dental floss daily, and visiting an oral health professional regularly for preventive professional interventions, can help prevent the formation of tartar. Avoiding sticky foods and having a balanced diet are important preventive measures.

3

Can tartar be removed at home?

No, as you should visit your oral hygienist or dentist, who will have specialized equipment and instruments available for the purpose. Trying to remove it at home can cause irreversible damage to your teeth and gums.

4

Is the Tartarus dangerous?

Tartar can lead to gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis, which can cause bone loss, gum recession, tooth sensitivity, and even premature tooth loss. Furthermore, it can affect the aesthetics of the smile.

5

Can oral elixirs prevent tartar?

Oral antibacterial rinses can help control plaque and prevent gingivitis, but they cannot remove tartar that has already formed. They should be used as part of a complete oral hygiene routine to help prevent tartar formation.

6

Can Tartar cause bad breath?

Yes, it can cause bad breath due to the accumulation of bacteria. These bacteria produce sulfur compounds that cause an unpleasant smell in the mouth, which can negatively affect self-esteem and social interactions.

7

Does tartar affect only adults?

No, tartar can affect people of all ages, including children. It's important to teach and supervise children's oral hygiene to prevent tartar formation and other dental conditions, as well as to have regular consultations with the pediatric dentist.

8

What is the difference between bacterial plaque and tartar?

Plaque is a white or yellowish substance that constantly forms on the teeth from bacteria and food debris. When not properly removed, it can harden and turn into tartar, which is a mineralized substance that is more difficult to remove.

9

Are electric toothbrushes more effective in preventing hardened dental plaque?

Studies suggest that electric toothbrushes may be more effective at removing plaque compared to manual toothbrushes, which can help prevent tartar buildup. However, regardless of the type of brush, proper brushing technique is essential.