Calculus – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

When we hear the term “calculus,” many of us may immediately think of the challenging mathematical subject. However, in the world of oral health, calculus refers to a common dental issue that can have serious consequences if left untreated. In this article, we will explore what dental calculus is, its symptoms, causes, and effective treatment methods.

What is Calculus?

Calculus, often known as tartar, is a hardened, calcified deposit that accumulates on the surfaces of teeth. It is the result of long-term plaque buildup on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria and food particles that constantly forms on your teeth. If it’s not properly removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can mineralize and harden into dental calculus.

Symptoms of Calculus

• Visible Deposits: One of the primary symptoms of calculus is the visible presence of hard, yellow or brownish deposits on the teeth. These deposits are typically more noticeable near the gumline.
• Bad Breath: Calculus can lead to chronic bad breath, as it provides a haven for odor-causing bacteria to thrive.
• Gum Inflammation: The accumulation of calculus can irritate the gums, leading to gingivitis (gum inflammation). This can cause redness, swelling, and bleeding when brushing or flossing.
• Tooth Sensitivity: As calculus builds up, it can lead to increased tooth sensitivity, making hot or cold foods and drinks uncomfortable.

Causes of Calculus

The primary cause of dental calculus is poor oral hygiene. When you neglect proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups, plaque can harden into calculus over time. Other contributing factors include:

• Diet: A diet high in sugary and starchy foods promotes plaque formation and calculus buildup.
• Tobacco Use: Smoking or using tobacco products can increase the risk of calculus formation.
• Age: As we age, we become more susceptible to calculus buildup due to changes in saliva composition and gum health.
• Dry Mouth: Conditions that cause dry mouth, such as certain medications, can contribute to calculus formation because saliva helps control plaque.

Treatment of Dental Calculus

Once dental calculus has formed, it cannot be removed through regular brushing and flossing. Treatment should be sought from a dental professional. The most common methods for dealing with calculus include:

• Professional Dental Cleaning: Dental hygienists use specialized tools to safely remove calculus from the teeth. This process is known as scaling and root planing.
• Ultrasonic Scalers: These devices use high-frequency vibrations to break down and remove calculus deposits.
• Antibacterial Mouthwash: Your dentist may recommend an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth.
• Improved Oral Hygiene: To prevent further calculus buildup, you must maintain a rigorous oral hygiene routine, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.

Conclusion

Dental calculus is a common dental issue that can lead to various oral health problems if left untreated. The good news is that with proper oral hygiene and the help of dental professionals like those at Clove Dental, you can effectively manage and prevent calculus buildup. Don’t wait until your dental health is at risk; take action today to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

For those seeking professional dental care and guidance, Clove Dental is here to help. With over 1.5 million happy patients and a presence in 400+ clinics across India, Clove Dental has established itself as a leading dental healthcare provider. Their team of 1000+ skilled and experienced doctors is dedicated to delivering top-notch dental services and oral health education to their patients.

Clove Dental’s commitment to excellence ensures that patients receive the best care and support to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Whether you require routine check-ups, treatment for dental calculus, or any other dental services, Clove Dental’s extensive network of clinics is ready to assist you.