When Should Tartar Cleaning Be Done? Process and Results
When Should Tartar Cleaning Be Done? Process and Results
Maintaining oral and dental health requires regular brushing and flossing. However, over time, plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, and these hardened deposits cannot be removed with daily care alone. At this stage, professional tartar cleaning becomes necessary. So, when should tartar cleaning be performed, how is it done, and what are the results?
What Is Tartar?
Tartar, also known as calculus, is a hardened layer that forms when bacterial plaque mineralizes over time.
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Plaque forms on tooth surfaces from food particles and bacteria.
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If not removed regularly, it hardens with the help of calcium and phosphate in saliva.
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As a result, yellow, brown, or even black deposits appear on the teeth.
Tartar is not just an aesthetic problem but also a major cause of gum disease.
When Should Tartar Cleaning Be Done?
The frequency of tartar cleaning varies from person to person, but it is generally recommended to have it done every six months during routine dental check-ups. In some cases, shorter intervals may be necessary:
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Smokers: Nicotine and tar accelerate tartar buildup.
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Heavy tea and coffee drinkers: These substances cause more staining and deposits.
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Poor oral hygiene: Inconsistent brushing and flossing lead to faster tartar formation.
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Gum disease risk: Patients prone to gum problems may need more frequent cleanings.
If you experience bleeding gums, swelling, bad breath, or tooth sensitivity, it’s time to see your dentist for tartar cleaning.
The Tartar Cleaning Process
Tartar cleaning, or scaling, is performed by a dentist using ultrasonic devices or manual tools. The process usually includes:
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Examination: The dentist evaluates overall dental health and tartar buildup.
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Ultrasonic Scaling: Vibrating instruments remove tartar from the tooth surfaces.
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Manual Scaling: Hand tools clean hard-to-reach areas.
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Polishing: Teeth are polished to create smooth surfaces, slowing new plaque buildup.
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Fluoride Application (optional): Strengthens enamel and provides extra protection.
The procedure typically takes 30–45 minutes and is generally painless. Patients with sensitive teeth may feel slight discomfort, but it usually subsides quickly.
After Tartar Cleaning
Following the procedure, several improvements are noticeable:
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Whiter, cleaner teeth: Stains and tartar deposits are removed.
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Healthier gums: Bleeding, swelling, and sensitivity are reduced.
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Fresher breath: Bacteria that cause odor are minimized.
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Reduced risk of tooth loss: Regular cleaning prevents gum disease progression.
Mild sensitivity to hot or cold foods may occur for a few days, which is normal.
Why Is Regular Cleaning Important?
Skipping tartar cleaning can cause more than just cosmetic issues. Untreated buildup can lead to:
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Gum recession,
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Periodontitis (advanced gum disease),
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Loose teeth and eventual tooth loss,
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Increased risk of systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease (due to bacterial spread).
Therefore, tartar cleaning is not only a cosmetic procedure but also a vital step for long-term oral health.
Conclusion
Tartar cleaning is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Neglecting it can result in both aesthetic problems and serious gum diseases. The best approach is to follow your dentist’s recommended cleaning schedule while maintaining good daily oral hygiene habits.
In short, regular tartar cleaning is the key to healthier teeth, fresher breath, and a stronger smile.
