Dental tartar and tooth decay

The appearance of dental plaque does not actually mean that there will be tooth decay. The two are actually not that closely related. The formation of dental tartar usually occurs on the teeth at the opening of the salivary glands, while tooth decay mainly occurs in the pits and fissures or adjacent surfaces of the teeth. It is recommended that friends with oral diseases should have regular oral examinations and learn more about their oral health.

The locations and causes of dental calculus and caries are different. Tartar forms on the surface of teeth near the openings of the salivary glands. The formation of dental tartar is related to the carbon dioxide concentration, acid-base value, and saliva concentration in saliva. Dental caries mainly occurs in the pits and fissures, proximal surfaces and tooth necks. The occurrence of dental caries is related to factors such as bacteria, food, saliva, teeth, and time.

The clinical symptoms of dental calculus and caries are also different. The teeth of people with tartar appear yellow or brown. Some patients may have black calculus on their teeth. Dental tartar will constantly stimulate the periodontal tissue, compress the gums, affect blood circulation, cause bacterial infection of the periodontal tissue, cause inflammation and atrophy of the gums, and form periodontal pockets. Caries cause changes in color, shape, and texture. Dental caries can be divided into three stages: shallow, moderate and deep caries. Symptoms vary at different stages.

The treatments for dental plaque and caries are also different. The harm caused by dental tartar is relatively small. Tartar does not require treatment. Brushing your teeth in the morning and evening, rinsing your mouth after meals, eating a balanced diet, and washing your teeth are the most important measures to prevent and treat tartar formation. Dental caries is more serious. The methods for treating dental caries include drug therapy, silver-mercury alloy filling, composite resin filling, acid-etched photosensitive composite resin filling, inlays, etc.

The above is the difference between dental calculus and caries. Although the clinical symptoms of dental tartar and caries are similar, they are two completely different diseases. Whether it is dental tartar or caries, if not treated in time, the tooth pain will become more severe. Therefore, dental tartar and caries must be treated promptly.