Dental calculus is easily identified, either by visual inspection or by touching- passing our finger or our tongue over the teeth.
Calculus can range in color from pale yellow to brown.If you feel that the tooth surface is rough, probably it is due to the tartar formed in this specific area.
In most cases dental calculus is located primarily in the inner surface of the frontal teeth and the outer surface of the upper second molars. So these are the certain points that you should first check.
Unfortunately, the subgingival tartar is more difficult to detect. It is located below the gum line and it is not visible. An indication of its existence,is whether floss during its use is cut or destroyed, when passed from the base of one tooth.
Patients that tend to accumulate subgingival tartar are at greater risk to come up with any kind of dental problems. Precisely because of its difficulty to be identified. These patients usually learn about its existence by their dentist. Either under a certain therapy or because of a problem (eg bleeding gums) caused by the tartar.
HOW TO PREVENT THE CREATION OF DENTAL CALCULUS
- Regular brushing and flossing are effective methods of preventing the creation of dental plaque and calculus on your teeth.
- Regular visits to the dentist every six months for professional cleaning of your teeth.
- To anyone with a bad history of tartar accumulation ,it is recommended at least one deep cleaning every year.
- Use a specific toothpaste,acting against calculus accumulation.
Athina Tsiorva