How to remove tartar and effectively prevent its formation?

What is tartar and how does it form?

Tartar is a hard, rough deposit that strongly adheres to the surface of teeth – it's most noticeable on the inner side of the lower incisors and near the gumline. Its color ranges from yellow to brown, and it is often accompanied by bad breath (halitosis) and gum sensitivity. Though it may initially look harmless, it is in fact mineralized dental plaque, which hardens due to the minerals present in saliva – mainly calcium and phosphates.

The process of tartar formation begins just a few hours after brushing your teeth. A soft, sticky layer called dental plaque starts to accumulate on the enamel. It consists of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. If it’s not removed through regular brushing, it gradually mineralizes and turns into hard tartar. It most commonly builds up in hard-to-reach areas – between the teeth, along the gumline, and even beneath the gums – making it even more dangerous.

Tartar symptoms are easy to spot – in addition to visible deposits, you may experience gum tenderness, bleeding when brushing, a rough feeling on your teeth, and bad breath. It’s also important to know that tartar and plaque are not the same – plaque is soft and can be removed at home, while tartar is the hardened result of plaque and requires a professional approach.

Why is tartar dangerous to oral health?

Tartar is not just a cosmetic issue. It poses a real threat to the health of your teeth and gums because it promotes the growth of bacteria that cause inflammation. When tartar builds up along the gumline or penetrates beneath it, it begins to irritate and weaken the gums. The result? Gingivitis, bleeding gums, formation of periodontal pockets, gum recession, and exposure of the tooth necks, which increases sensitivity to cold and sweet foods.

If not removed, tartar can lead to tooth mobility and, in extreme cases, even tooth loss. Moreover, bacteria present in tartar—such as Porphyromonas gingivalis—can enter the bloodstream, negatively affecting the entire body. Research shows that people suffering from periodontal disease are up to 70% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, as well as having an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and atherosclerosis.

That’s why it’s so important not to ignore the presence of tartar on your teeth. Regular dental visits, proper oral hygiene, and preventive care can protect you from many serious consequences—both health-related and aesthetic.

Can tartar be removed at home? Facts and myths

There is no shortage of online advice on how to remove tartar at home — from homemade rinses, to baking soda, to activated charcoal. Although these methods may seem tempting, the truth is: no home remedy can effectively remove dental tartar. Tartar is a mineralized, hard layer that adheres tightly to the tooth surface and can only be removed using specialized tools in a dental office.

Using baking soda or activated charcoal only provides a superficial abrasive effect. While they may help remove light stains or discoloration, regular use can damage enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity and deteriorating oral health. Apple cider vinegar, despite its antibacterial properties, can also cause enamel erosion and gum irritation.

Tartar can only be removed in a dental clinic — during a professional hygiene procedure such as scaling and polishing. It is recommended to undergo dental cleaning once or twice a year. Home methods are not effective in removing tartar. That’s why all internet hacks should be approached with great caution.

Which toothpaste should you choose for dental tartar?

Although no toothpaste can dissolve or remove tartar, a properly chosen product can significantly slow down its formation. The key lies in the active ingredients — they determine the toothpaste’s properties and its effectiveness against tartar buildup. The best results come from toothpastes that contain pyrophosphates, zinc citrate, or sodium citrate — these compounds inhibit the mineralization of dental plaque and make it more difficult for it to turn into hardened tartar.

It’s also worth reaching for toothpastes with fluoride, which strengthens enamel and protects teeth from cavities, as well as cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) and chlorhexidine, known for their antibacterial properties. These substances reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth, limit plaque formation, and support daily oral hygiene. However, chlorhexidine products should not be used for long periods — always check the manufacturer's recommendations.

How to brush your teeth properly to prevent tartar buildup

One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent tartar is proper tooth brushing. Although it may seem obvious, many people still make basic mistakes — brushing for too short a time or with incorrect technique. Yet, brushing is exactly what allows for the mechanical removal of plaque before it mineralizes into hard tartar.

So how should you brush your teeth effectively? The most important rules: brush at least twice a day, for at least 2–3 minutes, reaching all tooth surfaces — including along the gumline and hard-to-reach areas. Movements should be gentle but firm — ideally sweeping or circular, which help remove plaque without irritating the gums. Also, remember to replace your toothbrush every 2–3 months or when the bristles start to fray.

More and more dentists today recommend electric toothbrushes, especially sonic toothbrushes — and for good reason. These devices perform tens of thousands of vibrations per minute, which allows for much more effective plaque removal than manual brushing. Thanks to the rapid motion of the bristles, they clean better around the gumline and between teeth, where tartar most often accumulates. These areas are key in prevention — the more thoroughly you clean them, the lower the risk of tartar forming.

Interdental hygiene and its importance in tartar prevention

Brushing only the visible surfaces of your teeth isn’t enough to fight tartar buildup. Interdental hygiene — cleaning the spaces between the teeth — plays a key role, as these are the areas where plaque most often accumulates. These small, hard-to-reach zones provide an ideal environment for bacteria, and if not cleaned regularly, the buildup quickly mineralizes and turns into tartar.

For daily cleaning of interdental spaces, the best tools are dental floss, interdental brushes, or a water flosser (oral irrigator). Flossing helps remove food particles and bacteria from places your toothbrush can’t reach. Interdental brushes are ideal for people with larger gaps between teeth, braces, or dental bridges. Water flossers, which use a fine stream of water, effectively rinse out buildup below the gumline — making them an excellent addition to any tartar prevention routine.

For a complete effect, it's worth supplementing your routine with a mouthwash that offers antibacterial and refreshing properties. Some rinses contain fluoride and agents that inhibit plaque mineralization, providing extra support for oral health. Remember—consistency and thoroughness are key. Even the best toothbrush can't replace a comprehensive, multi-step oral care routine. Only with this approach can you effectively prevent tartar buildup and enjoy smooth, clean teeth every day.

 

Summary: How to prevent tartar buildup daily

• Drink more water – staying hydrated supports saliva production, which naturally limits plaque formation.
  
  

• Limit coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking – all contribute to staining and plaque buildup.
  
  

• Avoid snacking between meals – especially sweet and sticky foods.
  
  

• Brush your teeth twice a day for at least 2–3 minutes.
  
  

• Use toothpaste with fluoride, pyrophosphates, or zinc citrate.
  
  

• Floss regularly or use interdental brushes. Consider adding a water flosser for enhanced interdental cleaning.
  
  

• Use mouthwash that contains plaque-fighting or anti-mineralizing ingredients.
  
  

• Maintain a balanced diet – include raw vegetables and fiber-rich foods.
  
  

• Reduce stress – it can alter saliva composition and speed up tartar formation.
  
  

• Visit your dentist every 6 months – even if you have no noticeable issues.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Tartar

Can tartar be removed at home?

No, tartar can only be removed by a dentist. Home remedies may slow its formation, but they will not dissolve the hardened deposit.

What happens if tartar is not removed?

Failure to remove tartar can lead to gum inflammation, gum recession, periodontal disease, tooth mobility, and even tooth loss. It may also cause bad breath and cavities.

What causes tartar buildup?

Tartar forms from dental plaque that mineralizes due to components in saliva. It develops faster with poor hygiene, a diet high in sugars, smoking, and frequent consumption of coffee or tea.

Can tartar fall off on its own?

No. Tartar adheres firmly to the teeth and does not detach on its own. If you notice pieces breaking off, it likely means the deposit is cracking—this does not replace professional cleaning.

Can tartar be black?

Yes. Tartar can turn dark or even black, especially in smokers or those who drink lots of coffee or tea. This indicates the deposit is old and requires removal. Black tartar is often found below the gum line.

How often should tartar be removed?

Tartar should be professionally removed every 6–12 months, depending on individual predisposition. People prone to rapid buildup should do it more frequently, as advised by their dentist.

Does a water flosser remove tartar?

No, a water flosser does not remove tartar, but it supports prevention. It effectively flushes out food particles and bacteria from between the teeth and below the gum line, helping to prevent plaque formation.