If left untreated, plaque can harden to form what is known as tartar or calculus. A visible mineral build-up attached to teeth than can spread below the gum line, calculus poses a distinct threat to your oral health. And unfortunately, even the most diligent brush and floss will do nothing to remove calculus from the surface of your teeth.
The treatment and removal of calculus presents benefits that extend beyond the elimination of bad breath. The formation of calculus is an integral step in the development of more serious conditions such as periodontal or gum disease. And as has been documented, the development of gum disease has been associated with the development of several troublesome conditions that affect other parts of the body, including cardiovascular disease.
So it’s important to visit your dentist to take care of your calculus troubles. But what can you expect from treatment?
There are two main methods that we will use to remove calculus build-up:
Ultrasonic treatment involves high frequency vibrations with a tickling feel to them. Emitting a high pitched or humming sound, the instrument tips will knock pieces of calculus lose without cutting your teeth. The amount of time this takes will depend on the amount of work there is to be done.
Once this step is completed, fine hand tools will be used to carefully scrape and clean away the smaller calculus deposits. These tools are designed according to the shape of your teeth, and serve the function of returning your teeth to their smooth state. Finally, a polish and fluoride treatment is undertaken to leave your mouth feeling refreshed, smooth, and clean.
We should note that should the calculus build-up be severe enough, and extend well below the gum line, local anaesthetic can be optionally administered to assist your comfort during the cleaning process. Ordinarily, however, the removal of calculus should not be a discomforting experience.
There are clear and important benefits to the removal of calculus. Calculus deposits form the ideal habitat for the further development of bacteria that cause periodontal, or gum disease.
As mentioned above, periodontal disease has been associated with health risks beyond those of a merely oral nature. Best to see an experienced dental professional at Care Dental Camberwell to treat the problem where it stands, before further health complications are allowed the opportunity to arise.
