Black tartar, also known as calculus, is a hardened form of dental plaque that appears as a dark or black buildup on the teeth. It typically forms along the gumline and is essentially plaque that has been left unremoved, calcifying over time.
How Does Black Tartar Form?
The formation of black tartar begins with the accumulation of plaque, a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If plaque is not consistently removed through diligent oral hygiene, it absorbs minerals from saliva and hardens into tartar. When this tartar accumulates and is exposed to certain chromogenic bacteria or substances, or due to blood pigments if there's bleeding from the gums, it can develop a dark, sometimes black, appearance.
Several factors contribute to its formation:
- Inadequate Oral Hygiene: Insufficient brushing and flossing allow plaque to remain on tooth surfaces, leading to its hardening into tartar.
- Poor Dietary Choices: Diets high in sugars and starches promote the growth of plaque-forming bacteria.
- Lifestyle Factors: The use of tobacco products, such as smoking or chewing tobacco, significantly increases the risk of black tartar formation due to the pigments and chemicals they introduce into the mouth, as well as their detrimental effects on oral health.
Why Is Black Tartar a Concern?
While primarily an aesthetic issue due to its dark appearance, black tartar is a significant indicator of poor oral hygiene and can lead to more serious dental problems. Its rough surface provides an ideal environment for more plaque to accumulate, which can irritate the gums and lead to conditions like gingivitis (gum inflammation) and eventually periodontitis (severe gum disease), potentially causing tooth decay and even tooth loss.
Prevention and Management
Preventing black tartar primarily involves consistent and effective oral hygiene practices and addressing lifestyle factors.
To prevent and manage black tartar:
- Brush Regularly and Thoroughly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time using a fluoride toothpaste. Pay close attention to the gumline and hard-to-reach areas.
- Floss Daily: Flossing once a day removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and under the gumline, areas that toothbrushes cannot reach.
- Limit Sugary and Starchy Foods: Reducing the consumption of foods and drinks that contribute to plaque formation can significantly help.
- Avoid Tobacco Products: Quitting smoking or using other tobacco products is crucial for both oral and overall health.
- Regular Dental Check-ups and Cleanings: Professional dental cleanings are essential for removing hardened tartar that cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone. Dentists and dental hygienists use specialized tools to safely scrape off tartar from tooth surfaces.
