Tartar Removal Near You

What Is Tartar and How Does It Form?

Tartar begins as plaque. If plaque, which is like the soft deposits on your teeth, sits there too long, it hardens, and that’s when it becomes tartar.

Plaque forms daily from food, bacteria, and saliva. When it is not thoroughly removed with brushing and flossing, it mineralizes and hardens. Once that happens, it bonds tightly to the tooth surface. At that point, it cannot be brushed away.

What are the Signs of Tartar Buildup?

Tartar is usually noticeable, even to patients. You’ll be able to visibly see it. The teeth in the area might look more yellow or stained.

Other common tartar buildup signs include:

• Puffy or inflamed gums
• Gums that bleed easily
• A rough or crusty feeling on the teeth
• Bad breath that does not improve with brushing

Many patients are surprised by how their teeth feel once tartar is removed. When we remove the tartar, especially on the lower front teeth, patients say, ‘There are spaces between my teeth.’ That’s where the tartar was.

What Happens During a Professional Dental Cleaning?

A professional cleaning removes far more than what you can see in the mirror. We remove any visible tartar and tartar that builds up below the gum line as well. Even if you can’t see it, we’re removing it. This below the gum buildup below is especially important because it contributes to gum disease and bone loss if left untreated.

Tools Used to Remove Tartar

The method used depends on how much tartar has built up on the teeth.

For heavier buildup, dentists often use an ultrasonic scaler. This handheld device vibrates at a high frequency while releasing a small stream of water, helping to loosen and wash away hardened tartar.

For lighter deposits, hand instruments may be used instead. These are specially shaped tools designed to gently and safely remove tartar from the tooth surface.

Both techniques are standard, safe, and highly effective at restoring a clean, healthy smile.

How Do You Remove Hardened Tartar?

Hardened tartar can only be removed mechanically. The only thing that can remove tartar is for somebody to go in and break it off. There is no toothpaste, rinse, or home technique that can remove hardened deposits once they form.

Can You Scrape Tartar Off Your Teeth Yourself?

No, and doing so can cause real harm. You shouldn’t do it at home.

Using online tools or household items can:

• Damage gum tissue
• Scratch tooth enamel
• Push bacteria deeper under the gums
• Increase infection risk

Tartar is made of bacteria. If you’re not doing it right, you’re shoving that bacteria deeper into your gums.

Is It Good If Tartar Falls Off On Its Own?

Not necessarily. Tartar often breaks unevenly, leaving sharp edges and bacteria behind. Professional tartar removal is still needed to fully clean the area and protect the gums.

Can Oil Pulling Remove Tartar?

No. Not to remove tartar. Tartar is often compared to a barnacle. You can spray it with a hose, but you have to shuck it off.

Oil pulling may help with soft plaque for some people, but it does not remove hardened tartar.

Why Dentists Are Cautious About DIY Trends

We don’t want to give patients the wrong advice. Without strong scientific evidence, recommending certain at-home trends could lead to harm or delay proper care.

Why Regular Cleanings Matter

Routine cleanings prevent tartar buildup, protect gum health, and make future cleanings easier. If you can see or feel tartar, it is time to schedule a professional cleaning.