The hard truth about hardened plaque — and why you can’t brush it away.
If your dentist or hygienist has told you that you have tartar buildup, you might be wondering:
What exactly is tartar? How did it get there — and how do I get rid of it?
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
🦠 What Is Tartar?
Tartar, also called calculus, is hardened plaque that has been left on the teeth and gums too long.
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms constantly on your teeth. If it’s not removed with daily brushing and flossing, it hardens within 24–72 hours, especially in areas that are hard to clean — like behind your lower front teeth, along the gumline, or around dental work.
Once plaque turns into tartar, it can no longer be removed at home — it must be professionally removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.
🦷 What Does Tartar Look and Feel Like?
- It may appear yellow, brown, or even black depending on how long it’s been there and what you eat or drink
- You might feel a rough or chalky texture on your teeth, especially near the gumline
- In severe cases, tartar can lead to visible gum recession, bad breath, or a change in bite
Even if you don’t see or feel it, tartar can still be present — especially below the gumline.
⚠️ Why Tartar Is a Problem
Tartar creates a rough surface where more plaque and bacteria can stick, which can lead to:
- Gum inflammation (gingivitis)
- Gum disease (periodontitis)
- Tooth decay
- Bad breath
- Staining and discolouration
- Loose teeth or tooth loss in severe cases
The longer tartar stays on your teeth, the more damage it can cause — especially to the bone and tissues that support your smile.
🧼 How Is Tartar Removed?
Tartar removal is done through a procedure called scaling during your professional dental cleaning.
🪥 1. Ultrasonic Scaling or Manual Scaling
Your hygienist uses a small tool (or an ultrasonic scaler) to gently chip away tartar above and below the gumline.
You may feel light vibrations or scraping, but it’s typically painless — especially with regular cleanings.
🪞 2. Polishing
After scaling, your teeth are polished to remove surface stains and make it harder for new plaque to stick.
💎 3. Fluoride Treatment (Optional)
In some cases, a fluoride treatment is applied to strengthen enamel and reduce future plaque buildup.
If you have more advanced tartar buildup below the gumline, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) to treat early gum disease.
⏳ Can I Prevent Tartar Buildup?
Absolutely! While you can’t remove tartar at home, you can prevent it with strong daily habits:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss once daily
- Use an antibacterial or tartar-control mouth rinse
- Limit sugary and starchy snacks
- Drink lots of water
- Visit your dentist every 6 months (or more often if recommended)
Final Thoughts
Tartar may be tough, but with regular cleanings and good home care, you can keep it under control.
If it’s been a while since your last cleaning, don’t worry — we’re here to help, judgment-free, and get your smile back on track.
Ready to say goodbye to tartar? Book your professional cleaning today — your teeth (and gums) will thank you.