What is this Tartar We Speak Of
What Is This Tartar? Understanding Tartar Buildup and How to Prevent It
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What is this tartar on my teeth?”, you’re not alone. Tartar is one of the most common dental concerns—and one of the most misunderstood. Dentists frequently talk about tartar during cleanings, but many patients still don’t fully understand what tartar is, how it forms, or why it’s dangerous.
In this article, we’ll answer the question, “What is this tartar?” in detail and explain everything you need to know to keep your teeth clean, healthy, and tartar-free.
What Is This Tartar?
Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hard, yellowish or brownish deposit that forms on the surface of your teeth and along the gumline. If you’ve noticed a rough patch near your gums or between your teeth and asked yourself, “What is this tartar I keep feeling?”, it’s likely hardened plaque that has not been removed in time.
Tartar is formed when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—sits on the teeth too long and combines with minerals in your saliva. Over time, this mixture hardens into tartar. Unlike plaque, which can be removed with regular brushing and flossing, tartar must be removed by a dental professional during a cleaning.
Is Tartar the Same as Plaque?
You might be wondering, “Is tartar just another name for plaque?” While they’re related, they are not the same.
Plaque is the soft, invisible film that builds up throughout the day when you eat and drink. It contains bacteria that feed on food particles and sugars. If plaque isn’t removed regularly with brushing and flossing, it transforms into tartar—a much harder, visible substance.
So, when you ask, “What is this tartar?”, the answer is: hardened plaque that has turned into a stubborn buildup on your teeth.
What Causes Tartar Buildup?
Tartar forms when plaque is not consistently removed. Poor oral hygiene habits, sugary and starchy diets, smoking, and dry mouth can all speed up plaque accumulation and tartar formation.
If you’re noticing buildup and asking, “What is this tartar coming from?”, here are the most common culprits:
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Not brushing or flossing regularly
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High intake of sugar and carbohydrates
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Drinking soda, juice, or other acidic beverages
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Smoking or using tobacco products
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Poor dental care routine or missed dental cleanings
Tartar can start to form in as little as 24 to 72 hours if plaque is not removed—making daily oral care critical.
What Does Tartar Do to Your Oral Health?
Now that we’ve answered “What is this tartar?”, let’s talk about what it can do to your teeth and gums.
Tartar can cause:
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Gum inflammation (gingivitis)
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Bad breath (halitosis)
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Tooth decay
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Receding gums
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Periodontal (gum) disease
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Tooth and bone loss
Tartar forms above and below the gumline. The tartar that forms beneath the gums—also known as subgingival tartar—is particularly harmful. It creates a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause severe infection, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss if left untreated.
So when you find yourself asking, “What is this tartar doing to my mouth?”, the answer is: potentially a lot of long-term damage.
Can You Remove Tartar at Home?
No. Once plaque hardens into tartar, it’s no longer removable with a toothbrush or floss. You’ll need a professional dental cleaning to remove it safely. Attempting to scrape it off at home can damage your enamel or gums and is not recommended.
This is why regular visits to the dentist are essential—especially if you’re thinking, “What is this tartar I keep noticing between cleanings?”
How to Prevent Tartar Buildup
The best way to deal with tartar is to prevent it from forming in the first place. Here are some proven tips:
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Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
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Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
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Use antibacterial mouthwash to kill lingering bacteria
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Avoid sugary snacks and drinks
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Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning
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Stop smoking, as tobacco accelerates tartar formation
By following these steps, you can avoid wondering, “What is this tartar on my teeth again?”
What Is This Tartar Telling You?
When you see or feel tartar on your teeth, your mouth is sending a message—it’s time to take better care of your oral hygiene. Tartar is more than just a cosmetic problem. It’s a warning sign that plaque has been left too long and is now affecting your dental health.
If you’ve noticed buildup and keep asking yourself, “What is this tartar, and how can I get rid of it?”—the answer is simple: book a cleaning with your dentist as soon as possible.
Keep Your Smile Tartar-Free with The Teal Umbrella
At The Teal Umbrella, we specialize in preventing and removing tartar to protect your smile. Our professional cleanings and personalized dental care plans help patients of all ages stay ahead of tartar buildup and avoid serious oral health problems.
???? Don’t let tartar damage your teeth—book an appointment today with our friendly dental team. We’ll answer all your questions, including “What is this tartar?”, and help you achieve your healthiest smile yet.
