Is it normal for teeth to separate after tartar cleaning Find out why

"Tartar removal is an essential part of dental care to maintain a healthy mouth, but does it really cause teeth to shift? This question is often raised, especially with the myths and misinformation circulating about the effects of tartar cleaning. In this Daily Medical guide, we’ll uncover the truth behind tartar removal, how it impacts your dental health, and whether it can actually cause teeth to move apart or lead to other issues. If you care about your oral health and are looking for a scientifically accurate answer, keep reading."

Why Do Teeth Separate After Tartar Removal?

Tartar is a hardened buildup of plaque that can only be removed by a dental professional. But does tartar removal cause gaps between the teeth? In fact, this is a normal occurrence. Tartar can fill in the natural spaces between teeth, and once it is removed, these gaps may become more visible. However, there’s no need to worry—over time, your teeth often shift slightly back into their natural positions.

Does Tartar Removal Cause Gaps Between Teeth?

Routine tartar cleaning at the dentist does not cause permanent gaps between teeth. On the contrary, removing tartar improves gum health and reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, helping to maintain overall oral health.

Can Tartar Cleaning Cause Teeth to Fall Out?

No, tartar cleaning does not cause teeth to fall out. In fact, it helps prevent tooth loss by protecting the gums and surrounding structures. Some people may feel their teeth are slightly loose after a cleaning, but this is usually temporary. Dentists often apply substances to help strengthen and stabilize the teeth.

How Often Should Tartar Be Removed?

Since tartar can build up over time, daily brushing and proper oral hygiene are essential. Dentists generally recommend professional tartar cleaning twice a year (every 6 months). Each session typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, although additional sessions may be needed in certain cases.

Problems Related to Teeth Separation After Tartar Removal

Tartar cleaning is essential for maintaining oral health, but it may cause temporary gaps between teeth as hardened buildup is removed. While this is normal, some people may experience issues such as:

1. Bacterial Growth Between Gaps

New gaps may make it harder to clean food debris effectively. If left behind, food particles can ferment, creating an ideal environment for bacteria, leading to cavities and gum inflammation.

2. Aesthetic Concerns

Some individuals may feel uncomfortable about the appearance of newly visible gaps, especially if they're located in the front teeth and affect their smile.

3. Tooth Weakness

Long-term tartar buildup can weaken enamel. After removal, the tooth may seem more fragile or prone to chipping, especially in advanced cases.

4. Gum Recession

Tartar can cause inflammation and push the gums back. After cleaning, the gums may still appear receded, exposing the tooth roots and increasing the appearance of gaps.

5. Speech Difficulties

Large gaps may disrupt airflow between the upper and lower teeth, leading to difficulty pronouncing certain letters like "S," "Z," and "Th."

6. Psychological Discomfort

It's common to feel unusual changes in your mouth post-cleaning—such as increased airflow or the new shape of your bite. This feeling usually fades with time.

Causes of Teeth Separation

Teeth can become spaced out due to various reasons besides tartar. Here are the most common causes:

- Large Jaw Size

A mismatch between jaw size and tooth size can create natural gaps, affecting tooth alignment.

- Extra Teeth

Having supernumerary (extra) teeth or irregular tooth development can cause overcrowding, leading to spacing in other areas.

- Missing Teeth

Tooth loss or failure of some teeth to develop (especially baby teeth) can cause shifting and spacing.

- Severe Gum Infections

Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to serious gum diseases like periodontitis, which loosens teeth and causes them to shift apart.

How Does Tartar Affect Teeth Separation?

While regular brushing reduces tartar buildup, allowing tartar to accumulate can cause several problems:

- Prevents Proper Enamel Growth

Hardened tartar can disrupt normal tooth development and push teeth out of alignment, leading to gaps.

- Gum Disease

Tartar irritates the gums, leading to inflammation and recession, which increases the space between teeth.

- Root Exposure

Gum recession can expose the roots, making them more vulnerable to decay and creating visible gaps.

- Jawbone Deterioration

In advanced cases, tartar buildup can contribute to bone loss in the jaw, causing teeth to become loose or misaligned.

- Post-Cleaning Gaps

Removing large amounts of tartar may reveal gaps that were previously hidden. These gaps often improve as the gums heal and teeth stabilize over time.

Symptoms of Teeth Separation After Tartar Cleaning

Tartar removal is important for oral health, but some people may notice temporary symptoms, especially related to teeth spacing:

- Visible Gaps

One of the most common symptoms post-cleaning is noticing gaps that were previously filled with tartar.

- Sensitivity or Mild Pain

After tartar removal, some may experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods. This is because tartar acted as a barrier against temperature changes.

- Gum Irritation and Redness

Gums may feel irritated or appear red, especially if they were inflamed due to prolonged tartar buildup. This usually subsides within a few days.

- Feeling of Air Passing Between Teeth

Some people notice increased airflow between their teeth due to the newly exposed gaps. This is temporary and usually becomes less noticeable over time.

- Increased Saliva Production

Salivary flow may increase as your mouth adjusts to the changes after tartar removal.

- Speech Changes

Gaps may cause difficulty in pronouncing certain letters, especially if the gaps are large or located in the front.

- Discomfort or Embarrassment

Some may feel self-conscious about the changes in their mouth, but these feelings often diminish as they get used to their new dental state.

Treatment for Teeth Gaps After Tartar Cleaning by the Dentist

The issue of teeth spacing or gaps appearing after tartar removal can be concerning for some people. Fortunately, there are several effective solutions to treat this problem. If left unaddressed, it could lead to more serious oral issues, but thanks to modern dental advancements, there are various safe and simple ways to handle it. Here are the most common treatment options:

Gum Treatment

If the gaps are due to gum issues such as inflammation or gum recession, restorative techniques can be used. These include gum surgeries to reposition the gums or using stimulative materials that promote tissue regeneration. In some cases, medicated mouth rinses can be used to improve gum health.

Orthodontic Treatment (Braces)

If the gaps are due to misaligned teeth or tooth movement after tartar removal, braces can be used. Braces consist of metal wires that are fixed to the teeth to gradually realign them. The duration of wearing braces depends on the dental condition and requires regular visits to the orthodontist for adjustments.

Dental Bonding (Composite)

If the gaps need to be filled, dental bonding with composite resin is an option. This tooth-colored material is applied to the gaps after preparing the surface of the teeth, then hardened using a special curing light (like laser), ensuring it stays in place for a long time.

Dental Implants or Bridges

In advanced cases, dental implants or bridges may be the best solution. Implants are fixed directly into the gum or jawbone, while bridges rely on surrounding teeth to hold artificial teeth in place. However, gum health and bone support must be evaluated before proceeding.

Veneers

Veneers or Lumineers are modern cosmetic treatments used to address teeth gaps. These are thin shells made from porcelain or ceramic that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth. Veneers provide a natural and attractive look and can last for several years depending on the type used.

Effective Methods to Treat Teeth Gaps

After discussing the causes of teeth spacing, it’s essential to know the available solutions to close these gaps and restore a beautiful smile. Here are the most effective treatment methods:

Dental Crowns

Porcelain crowns are a practical option to treat teeth gaps. They are placed over the teeth to increase their size and reduce spacing. Crowns not only improve appearance but also strengthen weak teeth. They're often referred to as "dental caps."

Dental Implants

When the gaps are wide and require a permanent solution, dental implants are ideal. This involves replacing missing or damaged teeth with artificial ones anchored by posts. Though costly and time-consuming, implants provide long-term, effective results.

Braces

Braces remain one of the most common and effective solutions for reducing gaps. They work by gradually applying pressure to realign the teeth. While treatment can take time, it’s considered a long-lasting and ideal solution for many. Types of braces include:

Ceramic Braces: Nearly invisible and tooth-colored, but slightly weaker than metal.
Metal Braces: Most common and affordable, but more noticeable.
Lingual Braces: Attached to the back of the teeth, making them invisible but more expensive and harder to maintain.

AcceleDent

This is a small device placed in the mouth to accelerate the effect of orthodontic treatment. It uses gentle vibrations to move the teeth more quickly than traditional methods, significantly reducing the overall treatment time.

Propel Technology

This method involves micro-stimulation of the gums to speed up tooth movement. A specialized tool is used by the dentist to stimulate the bone around the teeth, accelerating alignment and reducing spacing.

Dental Bridges

Bridges are used to replace missing teeth and close gaps. They involve placing artificial teeth between natural ones using a bridge structure. This improves the appearance and alignment of the teeth.

Veneers

Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or resin applied to the front of the teeth to enhance appearance and close gaps. They offer a permanent aesthetic solution and significantly improve the smile.

Herbal Treatment for Teeth Gaps: Natural Remedies to Soothe Inflammation and Close Gaps

One of the most common causes of teeth gaps is gum inflammation, which contributes to the widening of spaces between the teeth. Fortunately, there are many herbs and natural methods that can help reduce inflammation and support the treatment of teeth gaps. Here are some of the most effective solutions:

Salt

Salt is one of the oldest natural remedies and acts as a natural mouth disinfectant. It helps eliminate bacteria and germs that cause gum infections. You can use it by rinsing with warm salt water to reduce inflammation and improve gum health.

Clove

Clove is a natural pain reliever and has long been used for toothache relief. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and also helps freshen breath. You can chew a whole clove or use clove oil to gently massage the affected gums.

Guava Leaf Rinse

Guava leaf rinse is one of the best natural treatments for oral health. It contains antibacterial properties that help cleanse the mouth of germs. Boil guava leaves and use the solution as a mouth rinse to keep the mouth clean.

Tea Tree Oil and Lemon Oil

This combination is effective in fighting oral inflammation. Tea tree oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties, while lemon oil helps disinfect the mouth and provide a fresh scent. Mix both oils and use as a mouth rinse or massage on the gums.

Coconut Oil and Olive Oil

Both coconut oil and olive oil contain antioxidants that fight bacteria and germs in the mouth. They can be used to massage the gums or as a mouth rinse to enhance dental health.

At-Home Care for Teeth Gaps After Tartar Removal

If tartar is treated early, it may not lead to serious problems. However, if left untreated, it can cause severe issues. Here are some at-home practices to help care for your teeth and gums:

Eat Calcium-Rich Foods

Calcium is essential for strong teeth. It’s important to consume calcium-rich foods like milk, eggs, sardines, and beans. Calcium supplements can also be taken under medical supervision.

Maintain Oral Hygiene

Keeping your teeth clean is vital. Use a toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste and dental floss to clean between teeth where the brush can't reach. Rinsing with salt water also helps eliminate germs and bacteria.

Herbal Remedies for Gum Treatment

Damaged gums are a primary cause of teeth gaps. You can treat gum issues with natural ingredients such as saltwater rinses or guava leaf mouthwash. Adding a few drops of lemon essential oil or massaging the gums with coconut and olive oil can speed up the healing process.

Take Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for dental health because it helps with calcium absorption and protects teeth from decay. Recommended sources include cod liver oil, oranges, salmon, sardines, and egg yolks.

Use Clear Aligners

For minor gaps, clear aligners can be a helpful at-home solution. These aligners are easy to use and can be removed and reapplied with ease. While not suitable for major spacing issues, they can help correct mild misalignments.

Who Treats Teeth Gaps?

Teeth gaps are typically treated by a dentist or periodontist, depending on the cause:

Dentist: Responsible for diagnosing and treating general dental issues, including spacing caused by tartar or inflammation. Treatments may include dental cleaning, braces, or cosmetic restorations such as veneers or crowns.
Periodontist: If the issue stems mainly from the gums, such as gum inflammation or recession, the patient may be referred to a periodontist. These specialists focus on gum conditions that affect tooth stability.
Orthodontist: If the treatment requires aligning the teeth (e.g., using braces to fix spacing), the patient might also be referred to an orthodontist.