Why is it important to remove tartar?

Tartar contains large numbers of bacteria and causes inflammation at the gum margin. The inflammation makes the gums recede from the tooth necks and creates pockets alongside the teeth that cannot be cleaned properly. As the inflammation spreads to the bone, the tissues that hold the teeth in place break down. This can cause teeth to move, become loose and eventually be lost. The simplest way to help prevent this is to have tartar removed regularly.

Explore the treatments related to this topic.
Preventive care »