Tartar

Tartar is a common cause of inflammation of the gums and can eventually lead to tooth loss. It forms when bacteria in plaque combine with minerals in saliva to harden into a coating that cannot be brushed away at home. Tartar is often found between teeth and near the gum line - areas that can be difficult to clean yourself.

"Tartar may seem like a small detail, but it is often where serious dental problems start. With proper cleaning, you can avoid both inflammation and tooth loss"
- Erik, dentist at Dentme

What is tartar?

Tartar is a calcified plaque stuck to the teeth. Plaque forms every day and consists of bacteria and food debris. When plaque is not removed with a toothbrush or floss, it hardens and turns into tartar.

Unlike plaque, tartar cannot be removed at home - it must be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist. It provides a breeding ground for additional bacteria and makes it harder to keep clean.

Two types of tartar

salivary stones

It forms above the gum line and is often white or yellowish. It is usually found on the inside of the front teeth in the lower jaw, where the salivary ducts are located. Salivary stones are easily felt with the tongue and are clearly visible on examination.

Serum stones

Forms under the gum line, in tooth pockets. It is darker, harder to see and often associated with gingivitis or periodontitis. Serum stones are most often detected on examination with a probe and sometimes with X-rays.

How does tartar form?

Tartar starts with ordinary plaque. Already a few hours after brushing, bacteria can start to attach to the teeth. If not removed regularly, it hardens within a few days. How quickly this happens depends on, among other things:

- Calcium and phosphate content of saliva

- Hereditary factors

- Oral hygiene and cleaning techniques

- Dietary habits, snacking and sugar intake

- Tobacco and dry mouth

Common symptoms of tartar

Tartar itself does not hurt, but can lead to symptoms such as

- Bleeding gums when brushing teeth

- Swollen, red or sore gums

- Bad breath

- Yellowish or brown deposits on the gums

- Uneven surface of the teeth felt with the tongue

-Bad taste in the mouth

- In more advanced cases: loose teeth

What happens if tartar is not removed?

If left behind, tartar can lead to the following problems

-Gingivitis (gingivitis) Bleeding, soreness and swelling

- Periodontitis (tooth loss) The inflammation spreads down the tooth's socket and can cause the tooth to loosen

- More difficult to clean Tartar makes it harder to brush clean, increasing the risk of more plaque and cavities

How is tartar removed?

Tartar is removed by a dentist or dental hygienist using special instruments. The treatment is quick, effective and usually painless.

- Ultrasound: Vibrating tip that gently loosens tartar

- Manual instrument: Manual scraping to remove residues and clean thoroughly

- Laser: In some cases, lasers are used to reduce inflammation and access deep-seated serum stones

- Polishing: Finished with polishing to give a smooth surface that prevents new plaque formation

What does it cost to remove tartar?

At Dentme, professional tartar removal is included in the Membership (SEK 149/month). At other clinics, the treatment usually costs between SEK 500 and SEK 2,000, depending on the extent and need for follow-up.

If you want tartar removal in addition to what is included in your Membership or what is recommended by your dentist, it costs SEK 590.

How to prevent tartar?

You can't completely prevent tartar, but you can reduce the risk by

- Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

- Flossing or interdental brushing every day

- Avoid snacking and sugar

- Restricting acidic drinks and tobacco

- Go for regular check-ups with a dentist or hygienist

Frequently asked questions about tartar

Can I remove tartar myself?
No, it doesn't. Once plaque has hardened into tartar, it needs to be professionally removed.

Does it hurt to remove tartar?
No. The treatment is gentle. Some people may feel some discomfort, especially if the necks of the teeth are exposed.

How often do you need to remove tartar?
How often you need to have tartar removed is assessed individually after your examination at Dentme.

Why do I get tartar even though I brush my teeth?
Your saliva composition, heredity, smoking and diet can have an impact. However, regular cleaning helps to slow down the progression.

Is tartar dangerous?
The tartar itself is not dangerous, but it can cause gingivitis and periodontitis if not removed.

What is the difference between plaque and tartar?
Plaque is a soft bacterial coating that can be brushed away. Tartar is a calcified plaque that is stuck and requires professional cleaning.

Can tartar affect the heart?
Studies show that untreated periodontal disease, often caused by tartar, is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Good oral hygiene is an important part of general health.

Sources used by Dentme:

1177 Vårdguiden - Tartar
https://www.1177.se/Vastra-Gotaland/sjukdomar--besvar/mun-och-tander/tandsten/

National Board of Health and Welfare - National guidelines for adult dental care
https://www.socialstyrelsen.se/regler-och-riktlinjer/nationella-riktlinjer/tandvard/

Tandläkartidningen - About tartar and periodontitis
https://www.tandlakartidningen.se/

World Health Organization (WHO) - Oral Health
https://www.who.int/health-topics/oral-health

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Oral Health Basics
https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/index.html