How to Prevent Calcification on Teeth

Calcium is a vital mineral. It helps build bones, allows our blood to clot, and so much more. When it comes to oral health, calcium plays a crucial role. 99 percent of the calcium in our bodies is located in our teeth and bones. With that being said, it helps our teeth stay healthy and strong! But what happens when we have calcium buildup on our teeth? We’ll discuss how to prevent or treat this issue to restore your oral health!

What Is Calcification?

Calcification refers to calcium buildup on the enamel and gums. This process starts with plaque. Plaque is a film that forms on your teeth. It has a chemical reaction with sugar and starch on teeth, which creates a harmful acid that eats away at the enamel. If plaque is left on the teeth for an extended period of time, it hardens and turns into tartar.

Tartar is hardened calcium and bacteria that wreaks havoc on your enamel and gumline. Tartar is a tough substance that can’t easily be removed by at-home brushing and flossing. Professional dental cleanings are one of the only ways to remove tartar from the teeth and gums.

Signs of Calcification

Wondering if you have plaque and tartar buildup? Here are some of the tell-tale signs of calcification:

• Chalky tooth appearance
• Chronic bad breath
• Heightened tooth sensitivity
• Rough tooth surface
• Swollen gums
• Yellowing teeth

How to Prevent Calcification

In addition to biannual dental cleanings and exams, we recommend maintaining a great at-home oral hygiene regimen. Brush at least twice a day for two minutes each time and floss daily. Avoid consuming excessive amounts of sugar and always rinse your mouth with water after meals and snacks. Good dental hygiene, healthy dietary choices, and regular dental visits can have a positive impact on your smile and keep calcification at bay!

Schedule Your Biannual Checkup & Cleaning

Are you overdue for your dental cleaning? Don’t put it off any longer! Calcification can cause a series of problems for your smile, so make sure you put your oral health as a top priority. Contact our office to book your visit to Dental Solutions of Avon/Indy!