What is tartar?

Tartar, also called dental calculus, is hardened dental plaque. When plaque isn't removed through regular brushing and flossing, it mineralizes and becomes tartar within 24-72 hours. Unlike plaque, tartar cannot be removed with a toothbrush — it requires professional dental cleaning.

Signs of tartar buildup

• Yellow or brown deposits along the gum line
• Rough, crusty coating on teeth
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Bleeding gums when brushing
• Gum inflammation or redness

Prevention tips

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss at least once per day
• Use tartar-control toothpaste
• Limit sugary and starchy foods
• Get professional cleanings every 6 months

When to see a dentist

If you notice visible tartar buildup or experience bleeding gums, schedule a professional cleaning. Only a dental professional can safely remove tartar without damaging tooth enamel.

What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease (periodontal disease). It's caused by plaque buildup along and under the gum line, leading to inflammation. The good news: gingivitis is reversible with proper oral care.

Common symptoms

• Red, swollen, or puffy gums
• Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing
• Bad breath that won't go away
• Tender gums when touched
• Receding gums or longer-appearing teeth

Risk factors

• Poor oral hygiene habits
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Diabetes and other chronic conditions
• Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause)
• Certain medications that reduce saliva

Treatment & prevention

Gingivitis can usually be reversed with improved brushing, daily flossing, and professional dental cleanings. Using an antiseptic mouthwash can also help. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease.

What are cavities?

Cavities, also called dental caries or tooth decay, are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of teeth that develop into tiny openings or holes. They're caused by bacteria, frequent snacking, sugary drinks, and inadequate teeth cleaning.

Warning signs

• Toothache or spontaneous pain
• Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet
• Visible holes or pits in teeth
• Brown, black, or white staining on tooth surface
• Pain when biting down

Stages of decay

• Stage 1: White spots (demineralization) — still reversible
• Stage 2: Enamel decay — cavity begins forming
• Stage 3: Dentin decay — spreads deeper
• Stage 4: Pulp involvement — may need root canal
• Stage 5: Abscess formation — serious infection

Treatment

Treatment depends on severity: fluoride treatments for early decay, fillings for small cavities, crowns for larger decay, root canals when pulp is affected, and extraction for severely damaged teeth. Early detection is key to simpler treatment.

What is plaque?

Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth and along the gum line. Everyone develops plaque because bacteria are constantly forming in our mouths. These bacteria use ingredients found in our diet and saliva to grow.

Why it matters

• Plaque bacteria produce acids that attack tooth enamel
• If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar
• Leads to cavities and gum disease
• Can cause bad breath
• Builds up within hours of brushing

How to control plaque

• Brush for 2 minutes, twice daily
• Use a soft-bristled brush at 45° angle to gums
• Floss daily to reach between teeth
• Consider an electric toothbrush
• Rinse with antibacterial mouthwash
• Chew sugar-free gum after meals

Fun fact

Plaque starts forming just 4-12 hours after brushing, which is why brushing twice daily is essential. In 24-72 hours, plaque can begin hardening into tartar if not removed.

What causes sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity occurs when the underlying layer of your teeth (dentin) becomes exposed. This can happen through enamel erosion, gum recession, or tooth damage. The dentin contains tiny tubes leading to the nerve, allowing stimuli to reach it.

Common triggers

• Hot or cold foods and beverages
• Sweet or acidic foods
• Cold air or water
• Brushing or flossing
• Alcohol-based mouthwashes

Possible causes

• Brushing too hard or with hard bristles
• Acidic foods eroding enamel
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Gum recession exposing roots
• Recent dental procedures
• Cracked or chipped teeth

Relief options

Use desensitizing toothpaste, avoid acidic foods, use a soft-bristled brush with gentle pressure, and consider a fluoride rinse. If sensitivity persists, see your dentist — it may indicate a cavity, crack, or other issue needing treatment.

What causes bad breath?

Bad breath, or halitosis, is often caused by bacteria in the mouth breaking down food particles and releasing sulfur compounds. While occasionally normal (like morning breath), persistent bad breath may indicate an underlying issue.

Common causes

• Poor oral hygiene and plaque buildup
• Food particles stuck between teeth
• Bacteria on the tongue
• Dry mouth (reduced saliva)
• Gum disease or infections
• Certain foods (garlic, onions, coffee)
• Smoking and tobacco products

How to combat it

• Brush teeth and tongue twice daily
• Floss daily to remove trapped food
• Stay hydrated to prevent dry mouth
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash
• Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva
• Clean dentures or retainers thoroughly

When to seek help

If bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, see your dentist. It could indicate gum disease, cavities, or other conditions. In some cases, chronic halitosis may be related to digestive issues or other medical conditions.