Is That Tooth Or Tartar Breaking Off Your Teeth?

Have you ever felt your tooth chipped while eating something that sends shudders down your body? Before panicking, you must know it may be tartar breaking off your teeth. It feels as if your teeth have come off, but that's not the case. Read along to learn more about this. 
What Actually Is Tartar?

Our mouth is loaded with bacteria, both good and bad. The harmful ones form a sticky film on the teeth' surface that hardens to form tartar. It lives on the sugar and acids from food that can lead to tooth decay. 

Getting rid of the plaque by brushing and flossing is possible; however, when not cleaned, plaque hardens into tartar or dental calculus. Tartar is hard since it contains minerals present in saliva. That is why you never attempt to remove tartar at home; always go to the dentist for it. 

Does Tartar Chip Off From Teeth?

We understand how confusing it can be to know whether tartar has come off your tooth or the tooth itself. However, you should know that your teeth are extremely strong and would not just randomly break. 

Usually, it is the tartar that chips away from your teeth, leaving behind gaps. Another way of identifying is to check and see what color the broken piece is. If the chipped piece is yellow or dark brown/black, it is tartar. 

Other than that, you can try the pressure test as well when crushing the broken tooth piece, which can reveal what it is. Enamel does not break at all; however, tartar will easily crumble.

What to Do When Tartar Breaks Off Teeth?

When tartar breaks off from your teeth, take these measures to get hold of the situation: 

• Stay Calm: If you feel that a calcified part of your teeth has come off, it is more likely tartar than your tooth. Tartar is a hardened form of plaque that can chip especially.
• Examine the Piece: Check the color and texture of the piece. If it looks brown, yellow, or black and easily breaks into tiny pieces under mild pressure, it is tartar. 
• Avoid Self-Removal: Do not attempt to remove any remaining tartar or sharp edges yourself. This will not only cause damage to your gums but hamper teeth, too. Trying to scrape off tartar can lead to bleeding and sensitivity.
• Schedule a Dental Appointment: Contact your dentist as soon as possible for a professional dental cleaning. They have the necessary tools and expertise to safely remove tartar and address any sharp spots left behind.
• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: You must practice a good oral hygiene regime to prevent future tartar buildup. Make sure you brush your teeth twice daily, floss regularly once, and visit your dentist for check-ups and cleanings at least twice a year.

Closing Note 

Now you know that your teeth can't chip just like that, but if you feel tartar breaking off your teeth, take it as a call for a professional cleaning session. If you have more concerns, get in touch with our specialist at Riverside Family Dental for help and treatments we have to offer you. Give us a call at (586) 468-0983 to schedule an appointment.