If tartar is not removed, it irritates the gums and causes gum inflammation (gingivitis); when the inflammation progresses and reaches the jawbone, periodontitis, gum recession, chronic bad breath and eventually loose teeth and tooth loss can occur. Tartar forms when bacterial plaque hardens with minerals in saliva and cannot be removed by brushing at home; professional treatment is required.
- The general recommendation is a dental check-up every 6 months.
- Ultrasonic cleaning does not damage tooth enamel.
- Cleaning does not trigger new tartar formation.
- Usually only mild vibration is felt during the procedure.
- Scraping with baking soda or hard objects scratches the enamel.
What happens if tartar is not removed? Tartar cleaning, one of the most important parts of an oral care routine, is often seen as an "aesthetic procedure" and put off. However, the answer to the question what happens if tartar is not removed is not just yellowed teeth, but a process that can lead all the way to serious tooth loss.
At OptimaDent, we have brought together the consequences of tartar buildup and the most frequently asked questions about it to help you protect your oral health.
What Is Tartar and Why Does It Form?
The bacterial plaque that forms on the tooth surface after meals hardens into tartar when it combines with minerals in saliva. Once it has formed, it is impossible to remove by brushing at home; it always requires professional treatment by a dentist.
Problems You May Face If Tartar Is Not Removed
If tartar is not removed at regular intervals (usually every 6 months), the following problems become inevitable:
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Gum Inflammation (Gingivitis): Tartar irritates the gums. Redness, swelling and bleeding during brushing begin.
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Periodontitis (Gum Disease): The inflammation progresses and reaches the supporting tissues of the tooth and the jawbone. At this stage, the gums begin to recede.
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Bad Breath (Halitosis): Tartar is a breeding ground for bacteria. The gases these bacteria produce cause chronic bad breath that does not go away with brushing.
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Tooth Loss: When the jawbone begins to break down, the teeth start to loosen and, unfortunately, healthy teeth are lost.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tartar
Does tartar cleaning damage tooth enamel?
No. The ultrasonic devices used in tartar cleaning (scaling) only remove hardened deposits from the tooth surface through vibration. There is no abrasion or damage to the enamel. On the contrary, tartar that is not removed does more damage to the enamel.
Does more tartar form after cleaning?
This is one of the most common misconceptions. After cleaning, the tooth surface becomes smooth. However, if the patient does not pay attention to oral care (brushing and flossing), new tartar can form depending on their saliva composition. The cleaning itself does not trigger new tartar formation.
Is tartar cleaning painful?
Usually not. During the procedure, you only feel mild vibration and the coolness of the water. Patients with gum recession or very sensitive teeth may feel slight twinges, but these are temporary and not enough to affect comfort.
How often should tartar be cleaned?
The general recommendation is a dental check-up every 6 months. However, depending on smoking, saliva composition and oral hygiene habits, some patients may need cleaning every 3-4 months, while for others once a year may be enough.
Can tartar be removed at home with natural methods?
Absolutely not. Trying to scrape off tartar with baking soda, lemon or hard objects permanently scratches tooth enamel and damages the gums. Tartar should be removed at a professional clinic with specialist equipment.
Healthy Smiles in Üsküdar: OptimaDent
Tartar buildup can later lead to much more costly and difficult treatments (root canal treatment, implants, etc.). At OptimaDent, our clinic in Üsküdar performs painless and quick tartar cleaning to help prevent gum disease.
Book an appointment today and protect your smile!
