Dental tartar—also known as calculus—is a common oral health issue that many people face, often without realizing it. While it might start as a harmless layer of plaque, tartar buildup on teeth can lead to serious consequences for your oral and overall health if left untreated.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about tartar buildup in teeth, including what causes it, how to recognize the symptoms, the health risks involved, and the best ways to prevent and treat it.
What is dental tartar?
Dental tartar is a hardened form of plaque that sticks to the surface of your teeth and along the gum line. Plaque forms naturally from food particles and bacteria in your mouth. If it isn’t removed by regular brushing and flossing, it mineralizes and hardens into tartar in as little as 24 to 72 hours.
- Initially, tartar is whitish.
- Over time, it turns yellow or brown.
- Tartar is porous and often forms in hard-to-reach areas, both above and below the gum line.
Once it becomes tartar, it bonds firmly to the enamel and cannot be removed by regular brushing alone—you’ll need professional dental care to get rid of it.
What causes tartar buildup on teeth?
Tartar forms when plaque is left to sit on your teeth. Several factors contribute to tartar buildup:
Poor oral hygiene
- Infrequent or improper brushing
- Not flossing daily
- Neglecting to clean between teeth and around the gum line
Saliva pH
- Acidic saliva increases the risk of cavities but slows tartar formation.
- Basic (alkaline) saliva tends to reduce cavities but promotes tartar buildup teeth.
Lifestyle habits
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Frequent consumption of sugary or starchy foods
- Drinking dark beverages like coffee, tea, and soda
- Dehydration or low saliva flow
- Poor dietary habits, including snacking on sticky foods
Symptoms of tartar buildup in teeth
Recognizing the symptoms of tartar buildup on teeth is essential to take timely action:
- Tooth discoloration: Yellow, brown, or even dark stains on the teeth
- Bad breath (Halitosis): Tartar harbors bacteria that produce foul odors
- Gum irritation: Redness, swelling, tenderness, and discomfort in the gums
- Tooth sensitivity: Particularly if the tartar reaches below the gum line
- Visible tartar: A crusty film that doesn’t come off with brushing
- Bleeding gums: Especially noticeable while brushing or flossing
Risks of tartar buildup
Tartar buildup in teeth isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it poses real health risks, both oral and systemic.
Oral health risks
- Gingivitis: Inflammation and bleeding of the gums
- Periodontitis: Advanced gum disease that affects the tissues supporting your teeth and can lead to tooth loss
- Cavities: Bacteria in tartar produce acids that erode enamel
- Receding gums: Tartar irritates the gums and pulls them away from teeth
- Tooth sensitivity and pain
General health risks
- Heart disease: Bacteria from tartar can enter the bloodstream and contribute to arterial inflammation
- Diabetes complications: Gum infections can make blood sugar harder to manage
- Respiratory infections: Harmful bacteria may be inhaled into the lungs, especially in elderly patients
A study found that regular dental cleanings can reduce the risk of heart attacks by 24% and strokes by 13%.
What are the links between tartar and periodontitis?
By definition, periodontitis refers to a serious condition characterized by inflammation of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. This group of tissues is called the periodontium, which includes:
- The gum
- The alveolar bone (the part of the jaw that holds teeth)
- Periodontal ligaments
- The cementum (a thin layer covering the tooth root)
Dental tartar plays a major role in the onset of periodontal disease. Caused by bacteria, it can affect one or more of these tissues:
- When only the gums are affected, it’s known as gingivitis.
- Symptoms include redness, swelling, irritation, and bleeding while brushing or eating.
- If left untreated, gingivitis can advance into periodontitis, where deeper tissues are damaged.
In more severe cases, periodontitis can lead to:
- Receding gums (also called periodontal recession)
- Bone loss around the teeth
- Loose teeth or even tooth loss
That’s why controlling tartar buildup on teeth is essential—not just for a clean smile, but to avoid lasting damage to your oral health.
How to prevent tartar buildup on teeth?
The best defense against tartar buildup is a consistent and thorough oral hygiene routine.
Daily oral hygiene tips
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste
- Use a sonic electric toothbrush for better plaque removal
- Floss daily to clean between teeth
- Use interdental brushes or a dental irrigator for hard-to-reach spots
- Rinse occasionally with an antibacterial mouthwash
Diet and lifestyle habits
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Limit sugary snacks and beverages
- Avoid tobacco and reduce alcohol intake
- Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots, which naturally clean the teeth
How to remove tartar from teeth?
Once plaque hardens into tartar, it cannot be removed at home using a regular toothbrush. There are both professional and natural methods you can consider:
Professional dental scaling
- Performed by a dentist or hygienist, scaling uses ultrasonic tools and manual instruments to remove dental tartar
- Followed by polishing, which smooths the tooth surface to make plaque less likely to stick
- Typically painless, though mild discomfort may occur
- May include a local anesthetic if you have sensitive teeth
How often should you scale?
- Most people should have their teeth professionally cleaned every 6 months
- High-risk individuals (e.g., smokers, pregnant women, diabetics) may require more frequent visits if needed
At-home methods to slow buildup (Not a replacement for professional care)
- Baking soda: Mix with water and brush once a week to help neutralize acids and reduce plaque
- Coconut oil pulling: Swish for a few minutes to reduce bacteria
- White or apple cider vinegar (Diluted): Rinse to help slow plaque accumulation (use sparingly to avoid enamel damage)
- Sugar-free chewing gum: Stimulates saliva and helps clean teeth
Caution: Avoid DIY methods using hydrogen peroxide or abrasive powders. These can wear down enamel and cause more harm than good.
Conclusion
Tartar buildup in teeth may seem like a minor nuisance at first, but it can quickly lead to gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and even impact your overall health. Fortunately, with proper daily care and regular dental checkups, you can prevent and control tartar buildup effectively.
A strong oral hygiene routine—including brushing, flossing, and smart lifestyle choices—along with professional dental tartar removal every six months, will keep your mouth healthy and your smile bright.