Imagine meeting your crush for the first time or attending that important business meeting; everything is going smooth until you show your smile, and black tartar peeps out from it. Black plaque or tartar, also known as calculus, is a black substance on the teeth surface that does not go away without professional assistance. Black tartar is very harmful as it can be a breeding ground for bacteria, making it difficult to brush or floss, and lead to many teeth and gum diseases. But what exactly is black tartar? Let’s find out.

How is black tartar formed?

Nobody wants a stained smile. But having tartar on the teeth can give you exactly that. Due to improper brushing and flossing, bacteria can build up along the gumline and create plaque, a colourless, soft coating on the teeth surface. A proper oral hygiene routine can get rid of it easily. However, if it’s left untreated for prolonged periods, plaque can harden and turn black, which cannot be removed by simply brushing or flossing.

What causes black tartar on teeth?

Usually, poor oral care hygiene is blamed for the formation of black tartar on the teeth surface. If the tartar forms below the gum line or turns black, it hints towards inadequate brushing and flossing. But those aren’t the only reasons. Here are some other factors that can contribute to the formation of black tartar on the teeth - smoking; consuming ‘staining’ foods and beverages such as coffee, wine, or tea; damage or breakdown of the enamel; and a diet that is loaded with sugar and starch.

How to remove black tartar?

Tartar removal is not something you can do on your own. If you want to get rid of black tartar, the best thing to do is visit your dentist. He or she will initiate a teeth cleaning process to help you remove it. The cleaning process includes scaling or root planning, where the black plaque on teeth is removed or scraped off from above and below the gum line.

You’re probably wondering - “Is there anything I can do to prevent it?” Yes, you can. Prevention is always better than cure and we’re here to help you. Since tartar buildup usually occurs because of inadequate brushing or flossing, here are some tips you can follow to take care of the same: