Black Tartar on Teeth: What It Is and How to Remove It

Maintaining oral hygiene is essential, yet even with diligent brushing and flossing, certain dental issues may arise unnoticed. One such concern is black tartar on teeth—a hardened deposit that regular cleaning methods cannot remove. Beyond its unsightly appearance, black tartar poses serious risks to your dental health, including gum disease and tooth loss. Fortunately, effective treatments are available. In this blog, we will discuss what black tartar is, why it forms, and how to address it properly.

What Is Black Tartar?

Black tartar is hardened plaque that turns dark over time. It forms when plaque—made of bacteria, food particles, and saliva—stays on teeth and hardens into tartar (calculus).

But why does it appear black?

• Oxidation: As tartar remains on the teeth, it reacts with substances like iron in saliva or blood from gum bleeding. This chemical reaction darkens the tartar.
• External Pigments: Smoking, coffee, tea, and certain foods stain tartar, turning it black.
• Decay: Sometimes, underlying tooth decay can darken tartar further.

Unlike yellow tartar, black tartar often hides near the gumline, between teeth, and sometimes below the surface. It can even extend into the pockets between teeth and gums, causing more serious dental problems.

Causes of Black Tartar on Teeth

Understanding the cause is key to prevention. Several factors add to the formation of black tartar:

1. Poor Oral Hygiene

Skipping brushing and flossing lets plaque to build up. Over time, this soft film hardens into tartar.

2. Smoking and Tobacco Use

Tobacco contains tar and nicotine, which stain both enamel and tartar deposits, giving them a dark appearance.

3. Diet High in Sugars and Starches

Sugary and starchy foods feed bacteria in the mouth, leading to faster plaque formation.

4. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Saliva helps clear away food particles and bacteria. When saliva production drops, plaque builds up quickly.

5. Gum Disease

Bleeding gums from early gum disease can mix with tartar, accelerating discoloration.

6. Ignoring Regular Dental Visits

Tartar is hard. Once formed, it can only be removed professionally. Missing dental cleanings allows it to worsen.

If you’re looking to protect your gums and prevent serious dental issues, scheduling routine visits for periodontal treatment in Northwest Calgary is essential. These appointments allow your dentist to catch tartar buildup early and address any concerns before they become more serious, keeping your smile healthy and problem-free.

Is It Tartar or Just a Stain?

At first glance, black tartar can be mistaken for simple staining. But there’s a big difference:

Tartar	Stain
Hard, crusty texture	Surface discoloration
Cannot be removed with brushing	Can be lightened with whitening toothpaste
Often near the gumline	Appears on the tooth surface
Indicates plaque buildup	Usually cosmetic

How to Tell?

• Run your tongue over the area. If it feels rough and bumpy, it’s likely tartar.
• Visual cues matter. Tartar appears as thick, layered deposits, while stains look more like patches of discoloration.

If you’re unsure, a visit to a dentist in Northwest Calgary can give you a clear answer. Professional evaluation is always better than guessing.

Professional Dental Treatments

It is important to understand that black tartar cannot be removed at home. While certain home remedies may help reduce surface stains, eliminating tartar requires professional dental instruments.

1. Scaling and Root Planing

• Dentists use special instruments to scrape off tartar from above and below the gumline.
• Root planing smooths the tooth root to prevent bacteria from reattaching.

2. Ultrasonic Cleaning

• High-frequency vibrations break up tartar deposits without harming the enamel.
• Water sprays wash away debris, giving teeth a clean, polished feel.

3. Polishing

• After tartar removal, polishing helps smooth tooth surfaces.
• This step also reduces the chance of new plaque sticking quickly.

4. Periodontal Treatments

• For severe cases where tartar has caused gum infections, deep cleaning and the latest procedures are necessary.
• Dentists may suggest professional care tailored to your specific needs, offering effective solutions for both immediate treatment and long-term oral health.

Regular cleanings every six months are not just for sparkle; they are essential for preventing tartar buildup and gum disease.

Final Thoughts

Black tartar requires immediate attention. It does not disappear with home remedies or extra brushing. The only reliable solution is professional dental care. If you notice dark deposits near your gums or between your teeth, seek treatment without delay. Timely care protects your oral health and restores your smile. At Carrington Dental, experienced professionals use the latest techniques to safely remove tartar and provide tailored care. Don’t wait for minor buildup to become a serious issue. Take charge of your dental health today. Schedule your appointment and give your teeth the care they deserve for a clean, confident smile.