What Is Tartar? Your Questions Answered

Ventura Bright Dental | Dentist in Ventura, CA

Tartar is one of the most common oral health concerns — yet many patients don’t fully understand what it is or how to prevent it. At Ventura Bright Dental, we believe informed patients make better decisions for their oral health. That’s why we’re answering your most important questions about tartar, how it forms, and how to protect your smile.

What Is Tartar?

Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hardened buildup that forms on your teeth when plaque isn’t removed. Plaque is a soft, sticky film made of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. If it’s not brushed and flossed away regularly, it can harden into tartar in as little as 24 to 72 hours.

Tartar is rough, discolored (yellow or brown), and usually forms along the gum line or between teeth. Unlike plaque, tartar strongly adheres to the tooth’s surface and cannot be removed with a toothbrush.

Can I Remove Tartar at Home?

No. Once plaque hardens into tartar, it can only be removed by a dental professional. Your dentist or hygienist uses special instruments to perform a procedure called scaling, which safely removes tartar from your teeth above and below the gum line.

Brushing and flossing help prevent tartar from forming, but once it’s there, only a professional cleaning can eliminate it.

Why Is Tartar Harmful?

Tartar buildup can seriously affect your oral health. Because it forms around the gum line, it creates a surface that traps bacteria and irritates the gums. Over time, tartar can cause:

• Gum inflammation and bleeding
  
  

• Gingivitis (early-stage gum disease)
  
  

• Periodontitis (advanced gum disease)
  
  

• Bad breath
  
  

• Tooth decay
  
  

• Tooth loss in severe cases
  
  

Tartar can also make it harder to brush and floss effectively, allowing more plaque to form and compounding the problem.

What Causes Tartar Buildup?

Several factors can contribute to tartar accumulation:

• Poor oral hygiene
  
  

• A diet high in sugar or starch
  
  

• Infrequent dental visits
  
  

• Smoking or tobacco use
  
  

• Dry mouth or low saliva flow
  
  

• Genetic predisposition
  
  

Even patients who brush and floss regularly may still develop tartar in hard-to-clean areas, which is why routine cleanings are so important.

How Can I Prevent Tartar?

Tartar prevention starts at home with a strong daily oral care routine, but regular dental visits are key. Follow these tips:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
  
  

• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
  
  

• Use an antiseptic or tartar-control mouthwash
  
  

• Reduce sugary snacks and drinks
  
  

• Stay hydrated to maintain healthy saliva flow
  
  

• Visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning
  
  

Keeping plaque under control is the best way to prevent tartar from developing.

Need a Dental Cleaning in Ventura?

If it’s been more than six months since your last cleaning, or if you’re noticing tartar buildup, it’s time to schedule an appointment. At Ventura Bright Dental, we provide gentle, thorough cleanings using advanced dental technology to remove tartar and keep your smile healthy.

We’re proud to serve patients in Ventura and surrounding areas with compassionate, high-quality dental care in a comfortable environment.

Contact Ventura Bright Dental Today:
3450 Loma Vista Rd, Ventura, CA 93003
Phone: (805) 666-1919
Website: www.venturabrightdental.com

Take control of your oral health. Book your cleaning today and keep tartar in check.

Disclaimer:

The information on this website is for educational purposes only. Ventura Bright Dental is not responsible for any decisions made based on this content. Always consult your dentist or healthcare professional for advice specific to your situation.