Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for a healthy smile, but sometimes, despite our best efforts, dental issues can arise. A calculus bridge is a common health concern that can have significant side effects if not addressed. Often underestimated, this dental condition can lead to severe complications if left untreated. In this blog, our sincere Soho dentists delve into what a calculus bridge is, its side effects, risks, and the treatments available.
Understanding Dental Calculus and Calculus Bridges
Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and along the gum line. When plaque is not removed by regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into calculus, which is much more difficult to remove.
Dental calculus, commonly known as tartar, is a hardened plaque that has been calcified on your teeth. Furthermore, researchers indicate that plaque calcifies within 1 to 14 days. When dental calculus accumulates across multiple teeth, a physical “bridge” of hardened tartar forms above and below the gum line, and it is typically the consequence of poor oral hygiene over an extended period.
Side Effects and Risks
Before we explore the treatment options for a calculus bridge, it’s crucial to understand the potential side effects and risks associated with this oral health condition. If left untreated, a calculus bridge can lead to more serious health problems over time.
- Bad Breath: The presence of a calculus bridge can also lead to chronic bad breath (halitosis) due to the bacteria trapped within the tartar.
- Gum Disease and Periodontitis: One of the most immediate risks of a calculus bridge is the development of gum disease. As calculus forms near the gum line, it can cause inflammation, leading to gingivitis, which can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can damage the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth.
- Tooth Loss: Moreover, if left unchecked, the continued growth of calculus can ultimately lead to tooth loss, as the structure of the teeth becomes compromised.
- Systemic Health Issues: Oral health is linked to overall health, with periodontal disease being associated with heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic conditions. Therefore, the risks of ignoring a calculus bridge extend beyond the mouth.
Treatment Options
While a calculus bridge not only affects the appearance of our smile, it also poses a threat to our overall oral health. Don’t worry; our lower Manhattan dentists can guide you through everything you need to know about your treatment options.
- Professional Dental Cleaning: The primary treatment for a calculus bridge is professional dental cleaning. Dentists, especially those in high-end practices like SoHo dentists in Lower Manhattan, have the tools and expertise necessary to safely remove calculus without damaging the tooth enamel or gums.
- Scaling and Root Planing: For more advanced cases, a procedure known as scaling and root planing may be required. This deep-cleaning process involves removing the tartar from above and below the gum line and smoothing out the tooth roots to help the gums reattach to the teeth.
- Ongoing Maintenance and Oral Hygiene: After the calculus has been removed, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent recurrence. Regular brushing, flossing, and use of an antiseptic mouthwash can help keep plaque at bay.
Find Calculus Bridge Treatment in SoHo
Understanding what a calculus bridge is, its risks, and how to treat and prevent it is essential for anyone looking to maintain good oral health. Whether you’re currently experiencing symptoms or simply looking to prevent future dental issues, reach out to our SoHo dentists in Lower Manhattan for the care and guidance necessary for a healthy, happy smile.
