Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth. However, when we talk about calcium deposits on teeth, we’re actually referring to hardened tartar, also called calculus.
Tartar looks white or off-white and contains calcium phosphates, which might be mistaken for calcium itself. These deposits need to be removed to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Let’s find out why!
Extreme Calcium Buildup on Teeth
Tartar, or calculus, starts as plaque, a sticky substance on tooth enamel. Plaque forms when bacteria in saliva mix with sugars and starches from food, creating acids that damage enamel.
Brushing and flossing regularly can remove most plaque. But if plaque isn’t fully removed, it hardens into tartar, which is also called calcium deposits. Tartar often forms on the inner surfaces of front teeth and upper molars near the cheeks. These areas get a lot of calcium from saliva, making them prone to tartar.
Tartar buildup can make teeth look yellow, brown, or dark. The teeth might feel rough if you run your tongue over them. Gums can bleed more easily when you brush or floss, and your breath might not smell good.
Plaque sticks to tartar, causing a cycle where tartar keeps building up. If tartar isn’t removed, especially near the gum line, it can lead to gum disease and gums pulling away from the teeth.
As tartar wears down enamel, cavities can form. You might also get abscesses and lose teeth. But visiting your dentist regularly can help.
Calcium Buildup on Teeth Breaking Off
Sometimes, tartar can come off your teeth when you eat certain foods or brush too hard. When this happens, it can leave a rough or sharp spot on your teeth. You might feel like trying to remove more tartar yourself, but doing this can harm your teeth and gums.
What Dental Issues Can Calcium Deposits Cause?
Tartar is more harmful than it seems. It can lead to several serious dental problems:
- Gum Diseases and Infections: If calcium deposits stay on the gum line for a long time, they can cause different gum diseases and infections like gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Gum Recession: As gum diseases and infections worsen, they can make the gum line pull back rapidly.
- Cavities: Bacteria from tartar deposits can wear away tooth enamel and cause tooth decay and cavities.
- Dental Abscesses and Infections: Besides cavities, too much calcium buildup can lead to severe dental abscesses and infections.
- Tooth Loss: Excessive calcium deposits can worsen cavities and infections, leading to tooth loss.
How Do Dentists Remove Calcium Buildup from Your Teeth?
Your dentist or dental hygienist can remove calcium deposits or tartar from your teeth using special tools. These tools include a scaler and curette. Since calcium deposits are harder than the daily film on your teeth, regular brushing won’t remove them.
The dentist or hygienist will use the scaler to carefully scrape off the discoloration. Another tool they might use is an ultrasonic scraper. This tool vibrates quickly and sends a gentle stream of water to help remove tartar from your mouth.
Final Word
Calcium is good for your teeth. However, calcium deposits on teeth are not. They can cause long-term dental issues that can harm your oral health.
Visit us at iCare4Smiles. Our seasoned dentist can examine your teeth and suggest the most appropriate treatments. Dial (732) 800-9524 to reach out.