If you haven’t had a professional dental cleaning in a long time, hardened buildup called tartar — also known as calculus — can start collecting around your teeth and gums. Many people are surprised by how much buildup can accumulate over time, especially in areas that are difficult to clean with brushing and flossing alone.
In viral dental cleaning videos online, you may see large chunks of tartar being removed in one piece. While it may look shocking (and satisfying), it’s actually a very common dental issue.
What Is Tartar or Calculus?
Tartar begins as soft plaque — a sticky film of bacteria that naturally forms on your teeth every day. If plaque is not removed properly through brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings, it hardens into tartar.
Once plaque hardens, it attaches firmly to the teeth and cannot usually be removed at home.
Common signs of tartar buildup include:
- Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
- Bad breath
- Bleeding gums
- Gum inflammation
- Teeth that feel rough or coated
- Gum recession over time
Why Brushing Alone Cannot Remove Hardened Tartar
Many patients think brushing harder will remove tartar, but once plaque calcifies, regular brushing and flossing are no longer enough.
Professional dental instruments are needed to safely remove the buildup without damaging the healthy tooth underneath.
At Lansdowne Dental Centre, professional dental cleanings are performed using specialized tools such as ultrasonic scalers. These instruments gently vibrate and break apart hardened tartar while helping protect the enamel and gums.
Why Regular Dental Cleanings Matter
Routine dental cleanings are not just about keeping teeth white — they are important for preventing:
- Gum disease
- Bone loss around teeth
- Cavities
- Chronic bad breath
- Tooth loss
In many cases, tartar buildup forms slowly over time without causing pain, which is why regular checkups are so important.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
For most people, professional dental cleanings are recommended every 6 months. However, some patients may benefit from more frequent cleanings depending on:
- Gum health
- Smoking
- Orthodontics or braces
- History of gum disease
- Heavy tartar buildup
- Medical conditions affecting oral health
A dentist or hygienist can recommend the best cleaning schedule for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tartar fall off on its own?
Sometimes small pieces may chip off, but hardened tartar usually requires professional removal.
Is tartar buildup dangerous?
Over time, tartar can contribute to gum disease, gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss if left untreated.
Do dental cleanings hurt?
Most routine cleanings are comfortable. If there is heavy buildup or gum inflammation, some sensitivity can occur, but modern techniques help make the process gentle.
What’s the difference between plaque and tartar?
Plaque is soft bacteria buildup that can be brushed away. Tartar is hardened plaque that requires professional dental instruments to remove.
Looking for a Dental Cleaning in Richmond, BC?
Dr. Tang and the team at Lansdowne Dental Centre provide professional dental cleanings and preventative dental care to help patients maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Regular dental cleanings can help prevent long-term dental problems and keep your smile healthy for years to come.