Tartar on Teeth: Causes, Removal, Symptoms, and Prevention

Medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: October 2026

Quick Answer: What is tartar?

Tartar is plaque that has hardened after mixing with minerals in saliva, forming a hard crust on the teeth above or below the gum line. Unlike soft plaque, it cannot be safely removed by brushing and flossing alone. A dentist or hygienist removes it during professional cleaning, and scraping it off yourself can damage teeth and increase cavity risk.

What the research says

• Routine cleanings modestly reduce calculus, with little change in gum inflammation for low-risk adults. A Cochrane review of 2 trials (1,711 adults without severe periodontitis) found that six-monthly scale and polish gave a small reduction in calculus versus no scheduled treatment (SMD −0.32, 95% CI −0.44 to −0.20), with little or no difference in gingivitis or probing depths over 2 to 3 years; the clinical importance of the calculus reduction is unclear (Lamont et al., Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2018). [1]

• The right cleaning schedule depends on gum health. A rapid review of 8 low-risk-of-bias reports concluded that for adults with no or early periodontal disease and regular dental care, routine scaling and polishing may have little clinical benefit but may reduce tooth loss, while for people with periodontitis, intervals tailored to individual risk and periodontal status can maintain health (Matthews & Al-Waeli, JDR Clin Trans Res, 2025). [2]

• Removing buildup under the gum line can matter beyond the mouth. In a Cochrane review of 35 trials (3,249 people with diabetes and periodontitis), subgingival scaling and root planing lowered HbA1c by 0.43% at 3 to 4 months (95% CI −0.59% to −0.28%; 30 studies, 2,443 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) (Simpson et al., Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2022). [3]

What is tartar made of?

Tartar mostly contains dead bacteria that have mineralized. It also contains a small amount of mineralized proteins from saliva. The minerals specifically listed include calcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, and magnesium phosphate.

Component	Plain-language explanation
Mineralized bacteria	Dead bacteria in plaque become hardened over time.
Saliva proteins	A small amount of proteins from saliva can also mineralize.
Calcium phosphate	One of the minerals found in dental calculus.
Calcium carbonate	Another mineral that can contribute to the hardened deposit.
Magnesium phosphate	A third mineral listed in tartar.

Plaque vs. tartar: What’s the difference?

Plaque is a yellowish, sticky film that develops when bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars in food. It can feel fuzzy on the teeth and can usually be removed with brushing and flossing. [4]

Tartar is plaque that has hardened. It may start out yellowish and become darker over time. It feels more like a hard shell and cannot be removed with routine brushing and flossing.

Feature	Plaque	Tartar
Texture	Soft, sticky, or fuzzy.	Hard, crust-like, or shell-like.
How it forms	Bacteria and food residue create a film.	Plaque hardens after mineralization.
Can home care remove it?	Usually, with brushing and flossing.	No; professional instruments are needed.
Color	Often yellowish.	May be yellow, brown, or black.
Main concern	Can contribute to tartar if not removed.	Can increase the risk of gum and tooth problems.

What are the signs of tartar on teeth?

Tartar may look like a yellow, brown, or black stain on the teeth. It can also appear as a hard, crust-like coating.

Other signs include bad breath and gingivitis. Gingivitis can cause gums to look red, swollen, or bleeding.

Sign	What you may notice
Yellow, brown, or black stains	Discoloration on the tooth surface or near the gum line.
Hard coating	A crust-like or shell-like deposit that feels rough.
Bad breath	An unpleasant odor that may persist.
Bad taste	Food debris and bacteria may collect around tartar.
Red or swollen gums	A sign of gingivitis.
Bleeding gums	Gums may bleed, especially when gum inflammation is present.

Does tartar smell bad?

Yes. Tartar usually has an unpleasant odor. It can also contribute to small pockets between the teeth and gums. Bacteria and food debris can become trapped in these spaces, leading to bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth.

Persistent bad breath does not prove that tartar is the cause. A dentist can examine the teeth and gums and identify whether tartar or another oral-health issue is involved.

What causes tartar buildup?

Tartar usually develops when plaque is not routinely removed. If plaque stays on the teeth, it can harden into tartar. [4]

Risk factors include not brushing or flossing often enough, eating or drinking many sugary foods and drinks, smoking or using other tobacco products, wearing braces, and having dry mouth.

Risk factor	Why it may contribute
Infrequent brushing or flossing	Plaque remains on the teeth long enough to harden.
Sugary foods and drinks	Foods and drinks such as bread, pasta, and soda can support the conditions that allow plaque to build up.
Smoking or tobacco	Tobacco use is associated with a much higher risk of tartar.
Braces	Braces can create additional surfaces and spaces where plaque collects.
Dry mouth	Reduced saliva can make oral care more difficult and may affect plaque buildup.

Can tartar affect your gums and teeth?

Yes. Tartar that is not removed makes gingivitis or gum disease, gum recession, and cavities more likely.

Tartar may also erode enamel, make gums swell and bleed, contribute to bad breath, and make teeth look stained.

Possible problem	How tartar may be involved
Gingivitis	Gums may become red, swollen, or bleeding.
Gum disease	Buildup can contribute to disease around the teeth.
Gum recession	The gum line may pull back.
Cavities	The risk of tooth decay increases.
Enamel erosion	Tartar can contribute to wear of the tooth’s outer surface.
Bad breath	Bacteria and food debris may become trapped.
Staining	Teeth may look yellow, brown, or black.

How do dentists diagnose tartar?

A dentist can usually identify tartar during a routine dental examination. If the dentist suspects cavities, gum disease, bone loss, or another problem, additional checks may be used.

Dental X-rays can help identify cavities or bone loss. The dentist may also measure the depth of pockets around the teeth to look for signs of gum disease.

Examination step	What it can show
Routine dental exam	Whether tartar is present above or below the gum line.
Dental X-rays	Cavities or bone loss that may not be visible during a routine inspection.
Pocket-depth measurement	Whether spaces around the teeth suggest gum disease.

How is tartar removed?

The only effective way to remove tartar is to see a dentist or dental hygienist. They use special instruments to remove the buildup safely.

Trying to remove tartar without professional help can damage teeth and make them more susceptible to cavities and other issues. Home brushing and flossing remain essential for preventing new plaque, but they cannot remove hardened tartar.

What happens during a dental cleaning?

During a routine cleaning, a dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar with special instruments. They also floss between the teeth and polish tooth surfaces with a rubber cup and gritty toothpaste.

Many people can keep tartar under control with dental cleanings every six months. People who are prone to cavities, gum disease, or other oral-health issues may need cleanings more often. A dentist can recommend a schedule that fits the person’s needs.

Cleaning step	Purpose
Instrument cleaning	Removes plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces.
Flossing	Cleans between teeth.
Polishing	Smooths tooth surfaces with a rubber cup and gritty toothpaste.
Ongoing schedule	Helps maintain oral health; frequency varies by need.

What if tartar has caused gum disease or bone loss?

If tartar has contributed to bone loss around the teeth, a dentist may recommend treatment for gum disease. These procedures remove tartar trapped beneath the gum line, where brushing and flossing cannot reach.

Listed treatments include scaling and root planing, osseous or pocket-reduction surgery, and laser periodontal therapy that uses laser energy to kill bacteria under the gums.

Treatment	What it may involve
Scaling and root planing	Removes buildup from beneath the gum line and treats the root surfaces.
Osseous surgery	Also called pocket-reduction surgery; addresses deeper gum pockets.
Laser periodontal therapy	Uses laser energy to kill bacteria under the gums.

Can you remove tartar at home?

No. Brushing and flossing can remove plaque but not hardened tartar. Scraping tartar yourself can damage teeth and gums and make you more susceptible to cavities and other problems.

If tartar breaks off while eating or after brushing aggressively, it may leave a rough or sharp area behind. Do not keep scraping. Contact a dentist so remaining tartar can be removed safely.

Why is tartar breaking off my teeth?

Tartar can occasionally break off while eating certain foods or brushing too aggressively. A rough or sharp area may remain afterward.

A broken piece does not mean all tartar has been removed. A dentist should check the area and safely remove any remaining buildup.

Why can tartar be black?

Tartar can take on the color of foods and drinks. Black tartar may be associated with smoking or other tobacco use, or with frequent tea, coffee, or red wine.

Tartar below the gum line can also turn black when blood mixes with it. A dentist can evaluate dark buildup and determine what care is needed.

How can you prevent tartar buildup?

The best way to prevent tartar is to reduce plaque before it hardens. The recommended routine includes brushing two to three times daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, flossing once daily, using an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash twice daily, avoiding tobacco, and attending regular dental exams and cleanings.

When buying oral-health products, look for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance, which indicates that products have passed tests for safety and effectiveness. Ask a dentist or hygienist for specific product recommendations when needed.

Prevention habit	Frequency or detail
Brush	Two to three times every day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Floss	Once every day between the teeth. Traditional floss or small interdental brushes may be used.
Rinse	Use an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash twice a day.
Avoid tobacco	Do not smoke or use other tobacco products.
Dental visits	Many people do well with exams and cleanings twice a year; some need visits more often.

How often should you see a dentist for tartar removal?

The right schedule depends on how quickly plaque and tartar build up and whether you are prone to cavities, gum disease, or other issues. Many people need cleanings every six months, while others may need them more often.

A dentist can recommend a maintenance schedule based on your oral-health needs. Regular visits also allow the dentist to look for cavities, gum disease, and other problems.

Is tartar an emergency?

Tartar buildup is not usually an emergency. However, it is best to have tartar removed as soon as possible to help avoid cavities and gum disease.

Schedule a dental visit if you notice persistent buildup, bad breath, bleeding or swollen gums, a rough deposit, or tartar that breaks off.

When should you see a dentist?

Arrange a dental appointment if you have tartar that does not go away, persistent bad breath, bleeding or swollen gums, tooth staining, a hard coating, or a rough area after tartar breaks off.

A dentist can determine whether the issue is tartar alone or whether cavities, gum disease, bone loss, or another problem is present.

Situation	Recommended next step
Hard buildup on a tooth	Schedule a professional dental examination.
Tartar that breaks off	Contact a dentist rather than scraping more at home.
Bleeding or swollen gums	Arrange an evaluation for gingivitis or gum disease.
Persistent bad breath or bad taste	Ask a dentist to look for trapped bacteria, food debris, tartar, or another cause.
Black or dark tartar	Arrange an examination to identify the cause and treatment needed.

Questions to ask the dental team

• Is this plaque or tartar? The answer determines whether home care or professional removal is needed.

• Is the buildup above or below the gum line? Tartar below the gum line may require gum disease treatment.

• How often should I have cleanings? Visit frequency depends on your oral-health needs.

• Do I have signs of gingivitis or gum disease? Red, swollen, or bleeding gums may need assessment.

• Do I need dental X-rays? X-rays can help identify cavities or bone loss.

• Which floss or interdental tool should I use? A dentist or hygienist can recommend products for your teeth.

• Could braces or dry mouth affect my risk? These are listed risk factors for plaque and tartar buildup.

Conclusion

Tartar is hardened plaque that forms when plaque is not removed before it mineralizes. It can appear above or below the gum line, feel like a hard shell, and become yellow, brown, or black. Unlike plaque, tartar cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone.

A dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar during a professional cleaning. If buildup has contributed to gum disease or bone loss, treatment beneath the gum line may be needed.

The most useful prevention routine is consistent plaque control: brush two to three times daily, floss once daily, use alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash twice daily, avoid tobacco, and follow the cleaning schedule recommended by a dentist.

Want a clearer next step for oral-health questions? Read more about dental care and talk with a dentist about persistent buildup, gum changes or bad breath before making decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is tartar?

Tartar, or dental calculus, is hardened dental plaque. It can form above or below the gum line and cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone.

Can brushing remove tartar?

No. Brushing and flossing can remove plaque but not hardened tartar. A dentist or dental hygienist must remove tartar with special instruments.

What does tartar look like?

Tartar may look like a hard, crust-like coating or a yellow, brown, or black stain on the teeth.

Does tartar cause bad breath?

Tartar usually has an unpleasant odor and can create spaces where bacteria and food debris become trapped, causing bad breath or a bad taste.

Can tartar cause gum disease?

Tartar makes gingivitis or gum disease, gum recession, and cavities more likely. Gums may become red, swollen, or bleeding.

How is tartar removed?

A dentist or dental hygienist removes tartar with special instruments during a professional cleaning.

Is it safe to scrape tartar off at home?

No. Trying to remove tartar without a dentist can damage teeth and make them more susceptible to cavities and other problems.

Why did a piece of tartar break off?

Tartar can occasionally break off while eating or after brushing too aggressively. Contact a dentist to remove any remaining buildup safely.

Why is my tartar black?

Tartar may look black because of tobacco use, tea, coffee, or red wine. Tartar below the gum line can also turn black when blood mixes with it.

How can I prevent tartar?

Brush two to three times daily, floss once daily, use an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash twice daily, avoid tobacco, and attend regular dental exams and cleanings.

How often should I get a dental cleaning?

Many people do well with cleanings every six months, but people prone to cavities, gum disease, or other issues may need visits more often. Ask a dentist what schedule fits your needs.

Is tartar an emergency?

Tartar buildup is not usually an emergency, but prompt professional removal helps avoid problems such as cavities and gum disease.

Related Reading

Dental Cleaning: Types, What to Expect and How Often explains what happens during a professional dental cleaning.

References

1. Lamont T, Worthington HV, Clarkson JE, et al. Routine scale and polish for periodontal health in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2018;12(12):CD004625. PMID 30590875. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD004625.pub5

2. Matthews DC, Al-Waeli H. Benefits of dental scaling and polishing in adults: a rapid review and evidence synthesis. JDR Clin Trans Res. 2025;10(3):269-281. PMID 39382084. https://doi.org/10.1177/23800844241271684

3. Simpson TC, Clarkson JE, Worthington HV, et al. Treatment of periodontitis for glycaemic control in people with diabetes mellitus. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2022;4(4):CD004714. PMID 35420698. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD004714.pub4

4. American Dental Association. Plaque. MouthHealthy. Accessed October 31, 2026. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/plaque

Disclaimer

This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical or dental advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health or dental provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or oral-health condition.

It explains what tartar is, how it differs from plaque, signs, causes, professional removal and prevention. It is not a diagnosis or a personal dental treatment plan. Tartar, plaque, gum symptoms, stains and bad breath can have different causes, so persistent or concerning oral-health changes should be discussed with a qualified dental professional.