Don’t start panicking if your tooth starts chipping off while brushing or eating; it might be tartar. Your tooth enamel is pretty h3 and cannot just chip away during everyday activities. However, tartar breaking off of your teeth is possible. But why does this happen? Keep reading to get an insight.
What is Tartar?
Your teeth’s surface has a sticky film of bacteria, namely plaque. It collects food debris and reacts with them, which can lead to tooth decay. But you can get rid of it by brushing and flossing your teeth daily. If not, it can gradually harden over time and turn into tartar or dental calculus. Tartar comprises the minerals in saliva, which turn it hard.
You cannot remove tartar at home; only a dentist can do so during dental cleaning. Nonetheless, you might sometimes feel tartar breaking off your teeth due to rigorous brushing techniques.
How to Tell If It Is Tartar Breaking off Teeth or a Chipped Tooth?
Your tooth enamel is h3, and it is rare for them just to chip away while you indulge in daily activities. So, if you feel something break off in your mouth, it is most likely not your tooth. Tartar, on the other hand, is susceptible to breaking off when you brush your teeth or eat something in a certain way.
To be sure, you can examine the chipped piece. It is likely to be tartar if it is brown, dull yellow, or even black in color. Besides this, you can apply slight pressure to see if it crumbles. It is undoubtedly tartar if it breaks under mild pressure, as tooth enamel requires more force.
What to Do When Tartar Breaks Off?
When tartar breaks off of your teeth, it can leave a sharp spot behind. One thing you should definitely avoid is: attempting to break more of it yourself. You can cause damage to your gums and teeth. Therefore, the sensible thing to do is visit your dentist. They can suggest what to do. Moreover, they can inspect the area and treat it accordingly. Dentists have professional equipment and tools to remove tartar effectively.
Is it Possible to Prevent Tartar Build-up?
Fortunately, you can prevent tartar build-up. To do so, you should adhere to proper oral hygiene, including:
- At least two times a day, brush your teeth for two minutes.
- Use floss or interdental cleaners to clean in-between your teeth regularly.
- Rinse your mouth with mouthwash for around 30 seconds.
- Drop by your dentist at least twice a year for regular dental cleanings and check-ups.
What Is the Takeaway?
Tartar breaking off teeth is possible if you eat or brush a certain way. Hence, if something chips off while you eat, brush, or floss — it is most likely tartar and not a piece of your tooth. Tartar forms when plaque hardens, and it can lead to dental complications. Thus, regularly visiting your dentist is essential for your oral health. At Dynamic Dental Solutions, we care for your oral well-being. Dial 281-837-9090 to schedule an appointment with our skilled team.