When it comes to oral hygiene, one of the most important things you can do is remove calculus from your teeth. This can be a difficult task, but there are several effective ways to do so. This blog post will discuss eight of the most popular methods for removing calculus.
What is Calculus?
Calculus is a hard deposit that forms on teeth. It is made up of minerals in saliva, plaque, and foods. Bacteria in plaque produce acids that eat away at tooth enamel, demineralization. This process creates microscopic pores in the enamel through which bacteria can enter, leading to tooth decay. Once calculus forms, it can only be removed with a professional dental cleaning.
There are two types of calculus: supragingival and subgingival. Supragingival calculus forms on the visible surfaces of teeth above the gum line. Subgingival calculus forms below the gum line on the roots of teeth.
Why is it important to remove calculus?
Calculus is a significant contributor to gum disease. It irritates the gums and makes them inflamed and red. This inflammation is called gingivitis. If not removed, calculus can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. Periodontitis can lead to bone loss and tooth loss.
How to tell if you have calculus on teeth?
Calculus is not always visible to the naked eye.
However, there are some signs that you may have calculus on your teeth:
- Your gums are red and inflamed
- Your gums bleed when you brush or floss
- You have bad breath
- Your teeth feel loose
- You have pus around your gums
There are several effective methods for removing calculus from teeth. The most popular methods are listed below.
How to remove calculus from teeth without going to the dentist
1. Scaling
Scaling is probably the most common way to remove calculus. It involves using special instruments to scrape off the build-up on the teeth. Scaling can be done at home or a dentist’s office.
2. Flossing
Flossing is another popular way to remove calculus. It’s often recommended that people floss once a day to remove plaque and bacteria from between the teeth. Flossing can be tricky for some people, but it’s essential to oral hygiene.
3. Waterpik
Finally, using a Waterpik is another way to remove calculus. This method involves using a high-pressure stream of water to dislodge the build-up on the teeth. Waterpiks are available for purchase at most pharmacies and drug stores.
4. Brushing your teeth
Of course, brushing your teeth is the best way to prevent calculus from forming in the first place. Be sure to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. If you can, get an electric toothbrush.
Electric toothbrushes are becoming more popular these days. These toothbrushes can effectively remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth. Many electric toothbrushes also have settings that can help to remove calculus build-up.
5. Get Calculus removal toothpaste
Some toothpaste is specifically designed to remove calculus. These toothpaste usually contain abrasives that help to break down the build-up on the teeth.
6. Removing with Baking soda mix
Baking soda is a great way to remove calculus naturally. Mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste. Apply the paste to your teeth and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing away.
7. Ultrasonic Tooth Cleaner
Ultrasonic tooth cleaners use high-frequency sound waves to remove calculus from the teeth. This method is usually only done by a professional dentist or hygienist.
How to use dental calculus remover
Is electric dental calculus remover safe?
Electric dental calculus removers are safe to use. However, it is crucial to follow the instructions that come with the device. In general, you should only use the device for a few minutes. It’s also important to avoid using the device on sensitive areas of the teeth or gums.
8. Use hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another popular home remedy for removing calculus from the teeth—Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water to form a paste. Apply the paste to your teeth and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing away.
All of these methods are effective at removing calculus from the teeth. Please choose the one that works best for you, and make sure to use it regularly to keep your teeth healthy and free of plaque and bacteria!
How is calculus removed professionally?
Calculus is mainly treated with a professional dental cleaning. The dentist or hygienist will use special instruments to remove the calculus from your teeth. This process is called scaling. Scaling can be done with hand instruments or ultrasonic devices. After the scaling is complete, the teeth will be polished to remove any residual calculus.
What are the different types of professional dental cleanings?
There are two types of professional dental cleanings: prophylaxis and periodontal therapy. Prophylaxis is a preventive cleaning that is done on patients with healthy gums. Periodontal therapy is a more aggressive cleaning done on patients with gum disease.
How often do I need professional dental cleanings?
The frequency of professional dental cleanings depends on your oral health. Patients with healthy gums typically need cleanings every six months. Patients with gum disease may need cleanings more frequently, depending on the severity of the disease. Your dentist or hygienist will determine how often you need to be seen based on your oral health.
What can I do to prevent calculus from forming?
There are a few things you can do to prevent calculus from forming:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily.
- Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks.
- Visit your dentist or hygienist regularly for professional dental cleanings and checkups.
Talk to your dentist or hygienist if you are concerned about calculus forming on your teeth. They can recommend the best course of action based on your oral health
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get rid of dental calculus?
Dental calculus can only be removed with a professional dental cleaning. The dentist or hygienist will use special instruments to scrape away the calculus from your teeth. This process is called scaling. Scaling can be done with hand instruments or ultrasonic devices. After the scaling is complete, the teeth will be polished to remove any residual calculus.
Can I remove calculus at home?
Some home remedies may help to remove calculus, but it is best to see a professional for cleaning. Home remedies include: brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, using baking soda, using hydrogen peroxide, and using an ultrasonic toothbrush. However, these home remedies will not be as effective as professional cleaning.
What tool do dentists use to remove calculus?
Dentists use a variety of tools to remove calculus from the teeth. These tools include hand instruments, ultrasonic devices, and lasers. The type of tool used will depend on the severity of the calculus.
What happens if dental calculus is not removed?
If dental calculus is not removed, it can lead to gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can damage the soft tissue and bone around the teeth. Gum disease can eventually lead to tooth loss. Therefore, it is vital to have calculus removed regularly to prevent gum disease.
How to break down calculus on teeth?
