We all have dental calculus firmly attached along the edges of our teeth, but the amount varies depending on how well we take care of our teeth.
Dental calculus is a mixture of bacteria, proteins, and food debris. When it accumulates over time, it becomes a sticky film called plaque. When plaque combines with minerals and saliva, it hardens and forms deposits that cling to the gaps and edges of the teeth, where bacteria reside.
The bacteria living on dental calculus release acids that cause problems for the tooth surface, leading to tooth decay and inflammation of the gums. The acids gradually destroy the bone supporting the tooth roots, causing the teeth to lose their strong foundation and eventually be lost.
There are many other problems caused by dental calculus, such as easy bleeding when brushing, yellow teeth, bad breath, gum recession, and periodontal disease. Therefore, it is necessary to have a dentist remove the calculus at least once a year or every 6 months, depending on the individual.
How to prepare before getting dental calculus removed
Before undergoing dental calculus removal, consider oral cleanliness and health, as well as other health conditions as follows:
- Have your oral and dental health checked by a dentist. If there are other oral or dental problems, the dentist may recommend treatment before removing the calculus.
- Brush your teeth gently without applying too much force and rinse your mouth before seeing the dentist.
- If you have underlying conditions such as high blood pressure or are taking blood thinners, inform the staff and dentist to assess whether you can undergo dental calculus removal.
How to care for and clean your teeth to prevent dental calculus
- Brush your teeth properly and thoroughly at least twice a day, or increase brushing after meals. Rinse your mouth frequently after drinking beverages.
- Use toothpaste containing fluoride.
- Use dental floss at least once a day because brushing alone often does not clean between the teeth well enough.
- Avoid smoking.
- After eating starchy foods or sugary drinks, if you cannot brush your teeth, rinse your mouth thoroughly to reduce the accumulation of bacteria and microorganisms that arise from starch and sugar, which are the main causes of dental calculus.
