What is calculus?
Calculus is a hard, mineralized plaque that forms on the teeth. It usually accumulates at the level of the gums or between the teeth.
Definition and Formation Process of Dental Stone
- Calculus is formed as a result of mineralization of dental plaque.
- Plaque is a sticky layer formed by the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth.
- If dental plaque is not cleaned regularly, mineral deposition occurs and calculus forms.
- The calculus is usually yellow or brown in color.
Differences Between Plaque and Tartar
| Feature | Tooth Plaque | Tooth Stone |
|---|---|---|
| Occurrence | Delicate, sticky bacterial layer | Mineralized dental plaque |
| View | Colorless or yellow | Yellow or brown |
| Removal | Can be cleaned with brushing and flossing | Requires professional cleaning by the dentist |
Causes of Calculus and Risk Factors
- Inadequate brushing and flossing
- Irregular teeth cleaning
- Use of tobacco products
- Excessive caffeine consumption
- Dry mouth (xerostomia)
- Tooth decay or gum disease
Effects and Damages of Dental Stone
The effects of dental calculus on oral health
- Calculus can cause bad breath (halitosis) on the teeth.
- Calculus can cause staining and discoloration of tooth enamel.
- Excessive calculus deposition can affect the proper alignment of the teeth and bite function.
- Calculus can contribute to gingival recession and the development of gingival diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis).
Potential to cause gum disease and other oral problems
- Calculus can cause redness, swelling and bleeding of the gums.
- Can cause painful gums and gum infections.
- Calculus can lead to the progression of gum diseases and tooth loss.
Possible effects of dental calculus on general health
- It has been associated with general health problems such as calculus, heart disease, diabetes, respiratory problems.
- Some studies show that calculus can contribute to pregnancy complications and the risk of preterm birth.
Scaling Treatment Methods (Teeth Stone Cleaning)
Scaling and professional teeth cleaning process
- Scaling is the process of removing plaque and calculus accumulated on the teeth by a specialist dentist or dental hygienist.
- In the professional dental cleaning process, the teeth are cleaned using ultrasonic instruments and special dental cleaning tools.
- The dentist or dental hygienist observes the calculus accumulation and determines the appropriate treatment methods.
Ultrasonic cleaning, hand tools and other treatment methods
| Treatment Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Ultrasonic Cleaning | Cleaning the calculus with vibrations and water flow with ultrasonic instruments. |
| Hand Tools | Manual cleaning of calculus with hand tools and special dental cleaning tools. |
| Floss and Mouthwashes | Using dental floss and mouthwashes to prevent tartar buildup and support oral hygiene. |
Frequently asked questions and answers to dental calculus treatment
- Q: Is tartar removal painful?
- C: Dental scaling is usually a painless procedure. However, a slight sensitivity may be felt in individuals with sensitive gums.
- Q: How often should scaling be cleaned?
- C: Tartar buildup can vary depending on a person's oral health status, but professional cleaning is usually recommended once or twice a year.
- Q: Can calculus removal be done at home?
- C: Home cleaning is not a substitute for professional cleaning. A visit to a professional dentist or dental hygienist is recommended to completely remove the calculus buildup.
Prevention of Tartar Formation
Daily oral hygiene tips to reduce tartar formation
- Regular and correct brushing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with the right technique.
- Floss: Use dental floss daily to clean between teeth.
- Mouthwash: Support your oral hygiene with an antiseptic mouthwash.
- Tongue cleaning: Reduce bacterial build-up by cleaning your tongue regularly.
Proper tooth brushing and flossing techniques
| Teknik | Description |
|---|---|
| Tooth Brushing |
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| Flossing |
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The effects of diet and lifestyle factors on calculus
- Reduce the consumption of sugary and acidic foods.
- Healthy diet: Support dental and gum health with a diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol use.
- Visit your dentist periodically and get professional teeth cleaning.
Relationship between Calculus and Other Oral Health
The relationship between scaling and gum disease and other oral health problems
- Gum diseases: Tartar can cause inflammation of the gums and the formation of gum diseases.
- Gingivitis: Tartar accumulation can cause symptoms such as redness, swelling and bleeding in the gums.
- Periodontitis: Periodontitis, which is an advanced gum disease, may occur with the progression of tartar accumulation from the gums to the lower tissues.
- Other oral health problems: calculus, bad breath (halitosis), tooth decay and gum recession can contribute.
The importance of periodic dental examinations and tartar control
| Makale | Description |
|---|---|
| Periodic Dental Inspections |
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Which Department of the Hospital should make an appointment for dental calculus?
You need to make an appointment from Oral and Dental Health hospitals or dentistry clinics.
