Asked by: Dailyn Vesenbeckh
Asked in category: medical health, dental health
Last Updated: 4th May 2024

What does calculus mean for your teeth?

Calculus, also known as tartar in dentistry, is a hardened form of dental plaque. It's caused by the accumulation of mineral from saliva and gingival crévicular fluid (GCF), in plaque on your teeth. Ultrasonic tools and dental hand instruments can remove calculus buildup (such as a periodontal scaling).



How can you remove calculus from your teeth?

Here's how:

  1. Brush twice daily for 2 minutes.
  2. Research has shown that electric, or powered toothbrushes, may remove plaque more effectively than manual ones.
  3. Use tartar-control toothpaste containing fluoride.
  4. Floss, floss, floss.
  5. Rinse daily.
  6. Watch your diet.
  7. Don't smoke.

What causes calculus in teeth, too? Bacteria deposits form when saliva, food, and fluids mix. These bacteria deposits collect at the gum line. Tooth decay, gum disease and tartar can all be caused by plaque buildup on the teeth that isn't cleaned up with regular flossing and brushing.

Another question that may be asked is, "How can I tell if my teeth have calculus?"

Plaque can be from colorless to pale yellow. Plaque is the fuzzy feeling on the surface of teeth . Plaque that is not colorless can be difficult to spot. It's important to take good care of your teeth and visit your dentist every six months to get a checkup.

What is the difference in plaque and calculus?

Plaque refers to the sticky, non-colorless film that forms on your teeth. If plaque are not removed by regular tooth brushing and flossing it hardens and becomes calculus, also known as tartar. Calculus is not something you can remove with a toothbrush. Only a dentist can do it during an oral clean.