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Tartar on Teeth: What It Is and Why You Should Remove It

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Medically Reviewed By Colgate Global Scientific Communications

The term tartar might sound unfamiliar to many. However, chances are you have seen hard, yellow, or black spots on your teeth that would not come off, even after brushing. That is tartar. It forms when sticky plaque stays on your teeth too long and hardens into a tough layer. This buildup not only affects how your teeth look but can also lead to problems like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

Many people want to know how to remove black tartar, but it is not always something you can manage at home. Read on to understand what tartar is, why it forms, the risks it brings, and the best ways to remove it safely.

What is Tartar on Teeth? 

If you have ever felt a sticky layer on your teeth after eating, that is the start of something called dental plaque. Plaque is a soft, sticky film made of bacteria, food bits, and saliva that forms on your teeth. With regular brushing and flossing, plaque is easy to remove. But when plaque stays on your teeth too long, it hardens and turns into tartar, or dental calculus.

Tartar teeth have a rough, crusty coating that sticks tightly to the surface. It is seen especially near the gums and between teeth. Unlike plaque, tartar cannot be brushed away at home. Hardened plaque not only makes your teeth look yellow or black, but it can also trap bacteria. This leads many to ask, does tartar on teeth smell? Yes, it often does. The bacteria in tartar can cause strong bad breath or halitosis if not cleaned by a dentist.

How Does Tartar Form on Teeth?

You might wonder what causes tartar on teeth in the first place. It all starts with plaque, which often comes with poor oral hygiene. If you do not clean your teeth well by brushing and flossing, the plaque builds up and hardens into tartar. It forms quickly, especially in areas that are hard to reach, like behind your teeth and along the gumline.

If tartar keeps growing, it can trap stains from food or drinks, leading to black tartar on teeth. This kind of buildup not only looks bad but can also damage your gums and teeth over time. Tartar does not go away on its own. Once it forms, only a dentist or dental hygienist can remove it safely.

What are the Symptoms of Tartar Buildup?

Tartar begins as soft, invisible plaque that sticks to your teeth after eating. If not removed through proper brushing and flossing, dental plaque can harden into tartar, which is the rough, crusty layer that is much harder to clean. Over time, tartar buildup can lead to visible and uncomfortable symptoms.

Here are some key signs to look out for:

  • Discolouration: You may notice yellow, brown, or even black spots near the gumline. Some may also wonder, ‘Can tartar be black?’ Yes, it can be, especially if it traps stains from tea, coffee, or smoking.

  • Rough or gritty feeling: Run your tongue over your teeth. If they feel rough or uneven, tartar may have formed.

  • Visible buildup: In serious cases, you might see thick, hard, often yellow deposits on the teeth, especially between or behind them.

  • Bad breath: Sometimes, you may notice tartar teeth smell because they trap bacteria that release bad-smelling gases.

  • Gum irritation: Red, swollen, or bleeding gums can be early signs of gingivitis caused by tartar buildup.

  • Receding gums: Over time, tartar can cause gum recession by pulling your gums away from teeth. It can also make your teeth look longer or more exposed.

Noticing these signs early helps you take action before more serious oral health problems develop.

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Tartar vs Plaque: What Is the Difference?

Many people confuse plaque and tartar, but they are not the same. Understanding the difference between them is important for keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

Here is a quick guide to help you understand plaque vs tartar:

Plaque:

  • A soft, sticky film made of bacteria, food, and saliva.

  • Forms on teeth every day.

  • Easy to remove with regular brushing, flossing, and mouthwash.

  • If not cleaned, it can cause tooth decay and gum irritation.

Tartar:

  • A hard, crusty layer that forms when plaque is not removed in time.

  • Sticks firmly to teeth, especially near the gumline.

  • It can be yellow, brown, or even black.

  • Needs to be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.

While plaque is the starting point, tartar is the hardened result. Both are harmful, but tartar is more difficult to deal with. That is why controlling plaque early helps prevent tartar and protects your smile.

Health Risks of Tartar on Teeth

Tartar does not just affect your appearance; it can lead to serious oral health problems if not treated in time. Even moderate tartar buildup can harm your gums and teeth by trapping bacteria and making it harder to clean your mouth properly.

Here are some common health issues linked to tartar:

  • Tooth decay: Tartar creates a rough surface where plaque can easily stick, leading to cavities.

  • Periodontal disease: Tartar near the gumline can irritate and inflame your gums, causing gingivitis. If left untreated, it can progress to more severe gum disease (periodontitis).

  • Bad breath: Bacteria trapped in tartar can cause a strong, unpleasant smell that does not go away with brushing.

  • Tooth loss: Advanced gum disease caused by tartar may lead to loose teeth or even tooth loss.

  • Stained teeth: Tartar absorbs stains from coffee, tea, and tobacco, making your smile look dull or dirty.

That is why it is important to treat moderate tartar buildup early before it turns into a bigger problem.

Tartar Removal Treatments

Tartar does not go away with regular brushing once it forms. So, if you are wondering how to remove tartar from teeth, there are both home care options and professional treatments to consider. The right choice depends on how much tartar has built up and where it is located.

Can You Remove Tartar at Home?

Many people search for how to remove tartar from teeth without dentist, especially if the buildup seems small. While you cannot completely remove hardened tartar at home, you can slow down its growth and reduce new buildup with good habits.

Here are a few tips to manage tartar at home:

  • Use tartar toothpaste: Look for special toothpastes labelled for tartar control. These help prevent plaque from hardening.

  • Brush twice a day: Use a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth gently but thoroughly.

  • Floss daily: Flossing removes plaque between teeth where your brush cannot reach.

  • Rinse with mouthwash: Antibacterial mouthwashes can help reduce plaque.

  • Limit sugary and starchy foods: These feed bacteria that cause plaque buildup.

These steps could be an answer for anyone wondering how to take tartar off teeth at home. While it can help prevent tartar, it cannot take off what is already there. That is why home care is best for early prevention and not complete removal.

How Do Dentists Remove Tartar? 

If you already have tartar, especially in hard-to-reach areas, consulting a dentist is a good option. The best way to get rid of tartar on teeth is through a professional cleaning. Here is how dentists remove tartar from teeth:

  • Scaling: Dentists use special instruments and tools to scrape away tartar from the tooth surface and below the gumline.

  • Polishing: After tartar is removed, the teeth are polished to make them smooth and help prevent new plaque from sticking.

If you are wondering how to remove tartar from back of teeth, this is where a dental professional’s help is required. They have the right tools and training to reach and clean areas that are nearly impossible to treat at home. Remember, regular dental cleanings, usually every 6 months, are the safest and most effective form of tartar removal.

How to Prevent Tartar on Teeth

Wondering how to prevent tartar from building up on your teeth? The best way is to stop plaque before it has a chance to harden. Tartar starts forming when plaque, the sticky film of bacteria, is left on your teeth too long. That is why daily oral care and smart lifestyle choices make a big difference.

Here are some easy ways to keep tartar away:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day: Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a fluoride toothpaste. This helps clean away plaque and kills germs before they turn into tartar.

  • Do not skip the floss: Plaque often hides between your teeth, where brushing alone cannot reach. Flossing with dental floss once a day keeps these areas clean and prevents buildup.

  • Use mouthwash: Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce plaque-causing bacteria. It can also help in freshening your breath.

  • Eat smart: Cut down on sugary snacks, soft drinks, and starchy foods. These feed bacteria in your mouth and speed up tartar formation.

  • Avoid tobacco products: Smoking or chewing tobacco can increase tartar buildup and harm your gums. Quitting these habits can greatly improve your oral health.

  • Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated keeps your mouth moist, helps prevent dry mouth, and washes away bacteria and leftover food particles. It also boosts saliva, which protects your teeth naturally.

  • See your dentist regularly: A professional cleaning every six months removes plaque you may have missed. It also gives your dentist a chance to spot early signs of tartar and treat them early.

Good habits each day can go a long way in keeping your teeth tartar-free and your smile healthy.

When to See a Dental Professional

If you notice hard buildup on your teeth, bad breath that will not go away, or red and swollen gums, it is time to see a dentist. A professional cleaning is the most effective answer on how to get rid of tartar, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Dental professionals often have the right tools to safely remove tartar and protect your teeth and gums. Regular checkups also help prevent tartar buildup and help maintain healthy teeth.

Tartar is a calcified buildup that can harm your tooth enamel and lead to serious oral health issues if ignored. But with good oral hygiene and regular dental care, you can prevent plaque from hardening into tartar. All it takes  are simple daily steps to avoid tartar teeth, while keeping your gums healthy and your smile bright.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What happens if tartar is not removed?

    2. If tartar is not removed, it can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and even tooth loss. Over time, if left untreated, it can damage both your gums and tooth enamel.

  2. Can you scrape tartar off your own teeth?

    3. No, it is not safe to scrape tartar at home. Doing so may harm your tooth enamel or gums. Only a dental professional has the right tools to remove calcified tartar safely.

  3. Can tartar be black?

    4. Yes, tartar can be black, especially when it collects stains from coffee, tea, smoking, or poor oral hygiene over time.

  4. How is tartar removed?

    5. Tartar is removed through a professional dental cleaning called scaling. Dentists use special tools to gently scrape off calcified buildup from the teeth and gumline.

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