Periodontal tissue includes the gums, alveolar bone, cementum around the roots, and periodontal ligaments, which play an important role in supporting and stabilizing the teeth on the jaw. Tartar and bacterial plaque are the main culprits of periodontal disease, causing periodontal tissue to become inflamed and destroyed, leading to the eventual loss of teeth.
Vietnam is one of the 20 countries with the highest rate of tartar in the world. Controlling the appearance of tartar and removing tartar once it has formed is key in the prevention of periodontal disease.
What is tartar?
If oral hygiene is not good, bacteria in the mouth combine with food debris to form a sticky film called dental plaque. Plaque adheres to the teeth and when it lasts enough time, it will deposit minerals in the saliva to form tartar. Only the inviting dentist can remove tartar with specialized tools.
Harm of tartar
Tartar clings to the surface of the teeth, causing unsightly, bad breath and hindering oral hygiene. There are always bacteria on the surface of tartar. This bacteria ferments sugars in food to produce acids that can damage tooth enamel and cause tooth decay.
Bacteria in tartar cause irritation and damage to the gums:
- A mild degree is gingivitis: gums are swollen, red, bleeding... Gingivitis can be restored if tartar is removed and proper oral hygiene is maintained.
- If gingivitis is not treated, tartar builds up and persists, which can lead to periodontitis. The body's immune system then releases chemicals to fight the bacteria and its products. The result of this "fighting process" is damage to the bone and periodontal tissues that support and stabilize the teeth on the jaw. The periodontal tissue is weakened, unable to hold the teeth, leading to loose teeth and eventual loss of teeth.
- The bacteria in periodontal disease are also associated with heart disease and a number of other systemic diseases.
Tartar accumulation for a long time will lead to many dental diseases and even loss of teeth
Prevents tartar formation
Brush teeth properly with fluoride toothpaste.
Use dental floss to remove bacterial plaque and food debris left in the interdental area.
Have a healthy diet, limit the amount of foods high in sugar and flour.
No smoking. Studies show that people who smoke or use other tobacco products are more likely to have tartar.
Once a tooth has formed, only a dentist can remove tartar. You should see your dentist every 6 months.