One of the most important steps in maintaining oral and dental health is regular teeth cleaning. However, over time, plaque and bacteria that accumulate on the tooth surfaces and cannot be removed through brushing can lead to the formation of dental calculus (tartar).
Dental calculus is a hardened layer of plaque on the tooth surface and can only be removed through professional dental cleaning.
How Does Dental Calculus (Tartar) Form?
Dental calculus (tartar) forms when minerals in the saliva interact with dental plaque, causing it to calcify and harden.
Irregular oral hygiene, frequent consumption of sugary foods, smoking, and insufficient water intake are the main factors that accelerate tartar formation.
What Are the Symptoms of Dental Calculus (Tartar)?
Dental calculus often goes unnoticed in its early stages; however, as it progresses, the following symptoms may appear:
- Bleeding or redness in the gums
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Yellowing or a dull appearance of the teeth
- Gum recession
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
If you experience even one of these symptoms, a dental check-up is strongly recommended.
How Can You Prevent Tartar (Dental Calculus) Buildup?
While it may not be possible to completely prevent tartar buildup, you can significantly reduce the risk by adopting the following habits:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day
- Use dental floss and mouthwash regularly
- Visit your dentist for routine check-ups
- Limit sugary and acidic beverages
- Drink plenty of water to support saliva flow
When Should Tartar (Dental Calculus) Cleaning Be Done?
In general, it is recommended to have a professional tartar cleaning every 6 months.
However, for individuals who smoke, consume a lot of tea or coffee, or have gum problems, this interval may be reduced to every 3–4 months.
How Is Tartar (Dental Calculus) Cleaning Performed?
Tartar cleaning is performed using ultrasonic devices that gently remove buildup without damaging the tooth surface.
Vibrating tips break up and dislodge the tartar, and the teeth are then polished with a polishing (prophylaxis) procedure to achieve a smooth surface. This process is completely painless and does not require anesthesia.
Is Tartar (Dental Calculus) Cleaning Harmful?
No, tartar cleaning is absolutely not harmful. On the contrary, if left untreated, tartar buildup can lead to serious issues such as gum disease, tooth loss, and persistent bad breath.
Any mild sensitivity experienced after the cleaning is temporary and typically disappears within a few days.
What Happens If Tartar Is Not Removed?
If not removed, tartar can settle between the teeth and gums, leading to inflammation and gum recession.
In advanced stages, this may develop into periodontitis (gum disease), which can result in bone loss.
Regular cleaning not only helps preserve your aesthetic appearance but also prevents tooth loss.
Does Tartar Cleaning Weaken or Thin the Teeth?
No, this is a common misconception.
During tartar cleaning, only the hardened plaque deposits on the tooth surface are removed; the tooth enamel is not harmed in any way.
On the contrary, after cleaning, the tooth surface becomes healthier and smoother.
Post-Treatment Care After Tartar (Dental Calculus) Cleaning
For the first few days after the cleaning:
- Avoid very hot or very cold foods
- Reduce consumption of coffee and tobacco
- Continue regular brushing and flossing
- Use oral care products recommended by your dentist
These steps help your gums heal faster and delay the formation of new tartar.
Trust, Aesthetics, and Expertise: Yenişehir Dental Clinic
At Yenişehir Oral and Dental Health Clinic, we are proud to offer safe, aesthetic, and comprehensive dental treatments in our modern clinic equipped with advanced technology.
Our founders, Dr. Hüseyin Hekimoğlu and Dr. Ezgi Antalyalı, provide comprehensive dental care for all age groups with a patient-centered approach focused on satisfaction. Together with our experienced team of dental professionals, we are committed to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.
At our clinic, a multidisciplinary approach is adopted in various fields — from implant surgery to aesthetic smile design, and from pediatric dentistry to orthodontic treatments.
Main Treatments We Offer:
✅ Implant Treatments
✅ Impacted Teeth and Surgical Procedures
✅ Aesthetic Smile Design
✅ Zirconium & Porcelain Crowns
✅ Teeth Whitening
✅ Fixed and Removable Prostheses
✅ Clear Aligner Orthodontics
✅ Gum Treatments (Periodontology)
✅ Root Canal Treatment (Endodontics)
✅ Fillings and Preventive Dentistry
✅ Bruxism – Teeth Grinding Treatment
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Harmandere, Reyhan Cd. No:69 AB,
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