Calculus Removal
Regular calculus removal helps in keeping your mouth healthy.
Calculus removal is one of the most common procedures in oral healthcare. It is recommended to have calculus removed because it provides a rough surface for bacteria to easily attach to. In addition, calculus causes gingivitis, which in the worst case can lead to periodontal disease.
Oral health is an important part of overall health, as the mouth is a gateway to the entire body. Oral diseases increase the risk of developing or worsening general health conditions. Conversely, a healthy mouth acts as one of the body’s protective barriers.
Calculus is removed during an appointment with a dental hygienist. Contact us and book your calculus removal appointment at eSmile.
How does calculus form?
Calculus is bacterial plaque that accumulates with the minerals in saliva and attaches to the surface of the tooth. Once calculus has hardened, it can no longer be removed by brushing. Mineral-rich saliva can cause calculus to form more quickly, but the upside is that it also helps prevent tooth decay. In such cases, a dentist or dental hygienist may recommend calculus removal more frequently.
How can calculus be removed?
Calculus removal is a procedure performed by a dental hygienist or a dentist. Dental hygienists are specifically trained in promoting oral health and treating gum diseases, which is why calculus removal is typically carried out by a hygienist. At eSmile, calculus is usually removed using an ultrasonic scaler and finished with hand instruments. In some cases, air polishing with sodium bicarbonate may also be used.
The ultrasonic device works through vibration, which effectively loosens calculus from the surface of the tooth. The loosened calculus is then rinsed away with a water spray.
Calculus removal with hand instruments is a more effective method than using ultrasound alone, as the remaining calculus is carefully scraped away. This also allows the removal of calculus from areas that are harder to reach, such as gum pockets.
Air polishing is suitable in some cases as a “maintenance clean,” especially when teeth have surface stains from, for example, coffee.
Benefits of calculus removal
Calculus removal benefits both oral health and overall well-being. One of the goals of calculus removal is to prevent oral diseases such as gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. This is a disease affecting the supporting structures of the teeth and that can even lead to tooth loss, as well as allow inflammation to spread elsewhere in the body. In addition to preventing oral diseases, calculus removal can improve the appearance of teeth and help prevent bad breath.
Preventing calculus
Calculus formation can be prevented with careful dental care. It is important to keep all tooth surfaces free from plaque. In practice, this means brushing your teeth twice a day and cleaning between the teeth regularly. It is important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and to clean carefully along the gumline.
Dental floss or interdental brushes should be used daily to clean between the teeth. Although maintaining good oral hygiene helps prevent calculus from forming, unfortunately calculus cannot be removed by brushing once it has already accumulated.
How often should calculus be removed?
It is important to note that calculus formation is individual, which is why a dentist or dental hygienist will provide a personalized recommendation on how often calculus should be removed. It is advisable to schedule calculus removal at regular intervals to prevent build-up and to stop it from progressing into gingivitis or periodontitis. Typically, calculus removal by a dental hygienist is recommended 1–2 times per year.