Dr. Moinack Rudra

Most people think the yellow or hard deposits on teeth are just “dirt,” but actually they are called calculus (also known as tartar).
Calculus forms when soft plaque — made of food particles, bacteria, and saliva — stays on the teeth for a long time. If brushing and flossing are not done properly, this plaque hardens within days and turns into calculus. Once it becomes hard, it cannot be removed by normal brushing at home.
Over time, calculus starts affecting both teeth and gums.
It can cause: • Yellow or brown deposits on teeth
• Bad breath
• Bleeding gums
• Swollen or sensitive gums
• Gum infection
• Gum recession
• Loosening of teeth in severe cases
The biggest problem is that calculus acts like a rough surface where more bacteria keep collecting, leading to continuous gum inflammation.
That’s where scaling helps.
Scaling is a professional dental cleaning procedure in which these hard calculus deposits are removed using ultrasonic instruments and specialized dental tools. It cleans the areas around and below the gums that normal brushing cannot reach.
Benefits of scaling: • Cleaner teeth
• Fresher breath
• Healthier gums
• Reduced bleeding and inflammation
• Prevention of gum disease
• Better oral hygiene overall
Many people think scaling weakens teeth, but that is a myth. After scaling, some people temporarily feel sensitivity because the calculus that was covering the tooth surface gets removed, revealing the natural tooth underneath. This usually improves with proper care.
Healthy gums are the foundation of healthy teeth. Regular scaling not only improves appearance but also helps protect your teeth in the long run.

Most people believe that brushing twice a day is enough to keep their teeth healthy. While brushing is very important, it actually cleans only about 60% of the tooth surface.
The remaining 40% lies between the teeth, where the toothbrush bristles simply cannot reach. Food particles and bacteria easily get trapped in these tight spaces. Over time, this leads to plaque buildup, which can cause cavities, bad breath, and gum disease.
This is where flossing becomes essential.
Flossing helps remove plaque and food debris from between the teeth and under the gumline — areas that brushing cannot clean properly. When plaque stays between teeth for too long, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist.
Regular flossing helps to: • Prevent cavities between teeth
• Reduce the risk of gum disease
• Keep gums healthy and strong
• Prevent bad breath
• Maintain overall oral hygiene
Think of it this way: brushing cleans the visible surfaces, but flossing cleans the hidden spaces. Both are necessary for a complete oral care routine.
For the best results, dentists recommend brushing twice a day and flossing once daily.
Because a healthy smile isn’t just about brushing — it’s about cleaning every surface of your teeth.