What Is Tartar and What Happens If You Do Not Treat It?

What Is Tartar

Tartar also known as calculus is a hardened form of plaque that sticks to your teeth above and below the gumline. It starts as soft plaque which is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth every day.

If plaque is not removed with regular brushing and flossing it can harden into tartar within as little as 24 to 72 hours. Once it forms tartar can only be removed by a dental professional.

Unlike plaque tartar is rough porous and strongly bonded to the enamel. It often appears yellow or brown and can build up in hard to reach areas especially behind the lower front teeth and along the gumline.

What Causes Tartar Buildup

Tartar forms when plaque is allowed to remain on the teeth for too long Common causes include:

• Inconsistent brushing or flossing

• Skipping dental cleanings

• High sugar and starchy diets

• Dry mouth or reduced saliva

• Smoking or tobacco use

Everyone has plaque but if not removed daily it leads to tartar which creates a stronger environment for bacteria to grow.

What Happens If Tartar Is Left Untreated

Tartar buildup may seem like just a cosmetic concern but it can lead to serious dental issues if ignored including:

Gum inflammation: Tartar irritates the gums and causes redness swelling and bleeding which are signs of gingivitis the earliest stage of gum disease.

Gum disease: If gingivitis is not treated it can advance to periodontitis a more serious condition that damages the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth This can lead to gum recession loose teeth or even tooth loss.

Tooth decay: Tartar makes it easier for bacteria to produce acid that erodes your enamel leading to cavities especially around the gumline.

Bad breath: Bacteria trapped in tartar buildup can cause persistent bad breath even if you brush and use mouthwash regularly.

Stains and cosmetic concerns: Tartar tends to absorb stains from coffee tea wine and tobacco leaving teeth looking yellow or discolored.

How Is Tartar Removed

Tartar cannot be removed by brushing at home. Once it forms it must be professionally removed with a procedure called scaling performed during a dental cleaning.

At Maddali Dental, our hygienists use specialized tools to gently and thoroughly remove tartar above and below the gumline to restore your oral health and comfort.

How to Prevent Tartar

The best way to prevent tartar is with good daily habits and regular dental care

• Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste

• Floss daily to remove plaque between your teeth

• Use an antibacterial or tartar control mouthwash

• Limit sugary snacks and drinks

• Visit us every six months for cleanings and exams

  
  

Schedule Your Tartar Removal in Union or Parsippany NJ

At Maddali Dental we help patients stay ahead of plaque and tartar with preventive care gentle cleanings and clear guidance on oral hygiene. Do not let tartar take over your smile!

📍 Union 908 851 9292

📍 Parsippany 973 334 2255

Call today to schedule your next cleaning and keep your mouth healthy clean and fresh