Tartar Teeth: What It Is, How to Prevent It, and Treatment Options

Tartar is a common concern for many people and can have a significant impact on both dental health and appearance. Understanding what tartar is, how it forms, and how to prevent and treat it can help you maintain a bright, healthy smile.

In this blog, we’ll go through everything you need to know about tartar, also known as calculus, to help you keep your teeth in top condition.

What is Tartar on Teeth?

Tartar is a hardened build-up of plaque that forms on your teeth and below the gum line. When plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can mineralise and harden into tartar. This hardened substance can’t be removed by regular brushing and needs to be professionally cleaned by a dentist or dental hygienist.

Why is tartar harmful?

Tartar not only makes teeth look discoloured, but it can also increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Tartar provides a rough surface that bacteria love to cling to, making it easier for more plaque to accumulate. If not managed, tartar build-up can lead to gingivitis (gum inflammation) and even more serious periodontal disease.

How Does Tartar Form?

Tartar begins to form when plaque isn’t effectively removed from teeth. Plaque forms naturally after we eat or drink, and it contains bacteria that can produce acids harmful to the teeth and gums. If left unaddressed, plaque calcifies and turns into tartar within as little as 24 to 72 hours. Once tartar has formed, it hardens firmly onto the teeth and can’t be removed by brushing alone.

Certain factors can increase the risk of tartar build-up, including:

• Poor oral hygiene habits, such as inconsistent brushing and flossing
• Diets high in sugar and starch
• Smoking and tobacco use
• Dry mouth or decreased saliva flow, which helps wash away food particles

The Importance of Preventing Tartar Teeth

Preventing tartar build-up is essential for maintaining not only a bright smile but also good oral health. Tartar teeth are more vulnerable to a range of issues, including gum disease, cavities, and even bad breath. The rough surface of tartar provides an ideal environment for further plaque build-up, which can create a cycle of bacteria growth and damage.

Keeping tartar at bay is a fundamental step in preventing gum disease and maintaining fresh breath and healthy teeth. Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to prevent tartar from building up.

How to Prevent Tartar on Teeth

Preventing tartar requires a consistent approach to oral hygiene and some lifestyle adjustments. Here are some key practices:

1. Brush your teeth regularly

Brushing your teeth twice a day is essential to remove plaque before it hardens into tartar. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, brushing for at least two minutes each time. Electric toothbrushes are especially effective at removing plaque and can make brushing more efficient.

2. Use tartar-control toothpaste

Tartar-control toothpaste contains ingredients specifically designed to prevent plaque from hardening on teeth. Some formulations contain pyrophosphates and fluoride, which help reduce tartar formation. Look for a toothpaste that states it is designed for tartar control and has the seal of approval from a recognised dental association.

3. Floss daily

Brushing alone doesn’t reach all the surfaces of your teeth, especially between them. Flossing removes plaque from between teeth, preventing it from turning into tartar. If flossing feels challenging, consider using floss picks or interdental brushes, which can be easier to handle and just as effective.

4. Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash

Using an antibacterial mouthwash daily can help reduce the bacteria that contribute to plaque build-up. Rinsing after meals or snacks can help wash away food particles, further reducing the risk of plaque forming on teeth.

5. Eat a balanced diet

Limiting sugary and starchy foods can help reduce plaque, which contributes to tartar. A diet rich in crunchy fruits and vegetables, like apples and carrots, can help stimulate saliva production and naturally scrub teeth surfaces, helping to keep them clean.

6. Avoid smoking

Smoking is one of the top contributors to tartar build-up. It affects saliva flow, increasing the likelihood of plaque and tartar formation. Smokers are also at a higher risk for gum disease and discolouration due to tartar build-up.

7. Schedule regular dental hygiene appointments

Regular dental hygiene appointments are the only way to remove tartar once it has formed on your teeth. Dentists and dental hygienists use special tools to scale and remove tartar, keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Most dentists recommend cleanings every six months, though some patients may require more frequent visits depending on their risk factors.

Treatment Options for Tartar Teeth

Once tartar has formed, it can only be removed by a dental professional. Treatment options include:

1. Scaling and polishing

During a professional dental cleaning, our dentist or hygienist will use specialised tools to scale, or scrape, the tartar off your teeth. After scaling, they’ll polish your teeth to remove any remaining plaque and make your teeth smooth and less likely to attract plaque in the future.

2. Root planing

In cases where tartar has formed below the gum line and caused gum disease, your dentist may recommend root planing. This deep-cleaning procedure involves removing tartar from the roots of your teeth to help the gums heal and reattach to the teeth, reducing inflammation.

3. Prescription mouthwashes or topical treatments

If you’re prone to tartar build-up or gum disease, your dentist might prescribe a stronger mouthwash or a topical treatment to reduce bacteria. These products can help prevent further plaque build-up and keep your teeth clean between dental visits.

In conclusion

Tartar on teeth is a common issue, but with proper care and regular visits to the dentist, it can be managed effectively. By keeping up with daily brushing and flossing, as well as avoiding certain habits, you can reduce your risk of tartar build-up and enjoy a healthier smile. If you have concerns about tartar or would like personalised advice, speak to your dentist about the best care routine for you.

Frequently asked questions - tartar on teeth