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Tartar

Tartar is a hard, mineralised deposit that forms from dental microbial plaque when it is not regularly and thoroughly removed through daily oral hygiene. Plaque is a thin layer of bacteria that accumulates on the surface of the teeth and dental restorations. If it remains on the teeth for an extended period, minerals from saliva gradually build up in it. The plaque then gradually calcifies (mineralises) and turns into hard tartar that is firmly attached to the surface of the teeth.

Tartar is not merely a cosmetic issue. It can cause bad breath, bleeding gums, gum inflammation or periodontitis. If it extends below the gum line, it can gradually lead to inflammation of the surrounding tissues and damage to the bone supporting the teeth.

The surface of tartar is also rough, which makes it easier for new dental plaque to accumulate. It gradually builds up and forms layers, much like the layers of an onion.

Types of Tartar

There are two basic types of tartar:

Supragingival Tartar

This forms on the surface of the teeth above the gum line. It is usually yellowish, brown or grey and often absorbs pigments from foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea or tobacco smoke.

Subgingival Tartar

This forms below the gum line around the tooth root and is not normally visible. It is darker in colour, often brown to black, and develops as minerals from the fluid in the gingival sulcus accumulate.

Why Does Tartar Form?

Several factors can contribute to tartar formation:

  • inadequate or incorrect oral hygiene

  • irregular tooth brushing

  • consumption of sugary foods and drinks

  • smoking

  • genetic predisposition

  • certain diseases or medications that affect the composition of saliva

  • age and changes in the oral cavity

How Is Tartar Removed?

Once tartar has formed, it cannot be removed through regular brushing at home. Plaque can be removed mechanically with a toothbrush and interdental aids, but mineralised tartar requires professional treatment.

Tartar is removed at a dental practice or during a dental hygiene appointment. An ultrasonic device is most commonly used to break up even firmly attached deposits. Special hand instruments may also be used in some cases.

During the treatment, the dental hygienist also assesses the patient’s oral hygiene and recommends suitable dental care products and the correct technique for cleaning the teeth and interdental spaces.

Preventing Tartar Build-Up

The most effective way to prevent tartar is through regular and thorough oral care. The foundations of prevention are:

  • brushing your teeth at least twice a day for at least two minutes

  • using interdental brushes or dental floss

  • using a soft toothbrush and the correct brushing technique

  • replacing your toothbrush or electric toothbrush head regularly (approximately every 3 months)

  • regular visits to a dentist and dental hygienist (Prague 1 / Prague 5)

To check how effectively you are cleaning your teeth, you can also use plaque-disclosing agents, such as disclosing tablets, which highlight remaining plaque on the teeth.

Another useful aid is a water flosser, which helps clean between the teeth using a stream of water while also stimulating blood circulation in the gums.

A healthy lifestyle also plays an important role, particularly limiting the consumption of sugar and sugary drinks.

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