What Is Tartar?

1. What is tartar?

Tartar (dental calculus) is plaque that has hardened over time as minerals from saliva and food debris build up, becoming firmly attached to the tooth surface or below the gum line.

There are 2 types of tartar:

• Supragingival tartar — the common type, found on the visible surface of the teeth.
• Subgingival tartar — forms when the gums are inflamed: inflammatory fluid and blood soak into the tartar and give it a reddish-brown colour.

2. Why is tartar harmful?

Tartar looks unattractive, causes bad breath and makes cleaning harder. Its surface is always covered with bacteria, which turn sugar from food into acid that damages enamel and causes decay, and which also irritate the gums:

• Gingivitis (early stage): gums become swollen, red and bleed easily. Gingivitis is reversible if the tartar is removed and good oral hygiene is maintained.
• Periodontitis: if gingivitis is left untreated, tartar keeps building up and the inflammation spreads to the tissues and bone that support the teeth; teeth become loose and may be lost.
• Bacteria may also contribute to other conditions, such as retrograde pulpitis and diseases of the oral mucosa.

3. How to prevent tartar

• Brush properly with fluoride toothpaste; a mouthwash can also help.
• Floss to clean between your teeth and keep plaque from building up.
• Eat a healthy diet and limit sugary and starchy foods.
• Quit smoking — smokers build up tartar faster.

Once tartar has formed, it needs to be removed by a dentist before problems develop. Regular check-ups and professional cleaning every 6 months are the best way to minimise oral health problems.