What is tartar?
Tartar or calculus is plaque that has hardened and formed a deposit on your teeth.  Tartar can also form at and underneath the gum line, making it difficult to clean by yourself.  Tarter can also irritate gum tissues and lead to poor gum health. Plaque serves as a type of adhesive for tartar to grow on.  The more plaque you have the greater your likely hood for developing problems with tartar build-up.  Tartar is something to avoid because it can lead to more serious conditions, such as cavities and gum disease.

Additionally it is important to be aware of the fact that tartar and plaque deposits build up faster with age, so it becomes increasingly important to keep your teeth clean and see your dentist when you are supposed to.  Tartar can be distinguished by its yellowish color that can be found on teeth and gums.

What causes tartar buildup?
The accumulation of plaque hardens and turns into tartar.  Plaque is formed by improper or infrequent brushing and flossing.  Tarter bonds strongly to the tooth's enamel and can only be removed by a dental professional.

How long does it take for plaque to become tartar?
The time it takes for plaque to become tarter will vary from person to person.  This is why regular dental visits to the dentist's office are so important.  Visiting the dentist every six months will ensure that plaque build-up and problems with tartar do not become too serious. If you are one who has frequent problems with plaque problems and tartar build-up you may need to see the dentist more often than twice a year.  You should talk to your dental professional and ask him what he recommends is best for you and your oral health.

What can tartar do?
It is especially important to take care of any tartar buildup you may have if you are a coffee or tea drinker or if you smoke.  Because tartar is porous, it absorbs stains more easily.  Not only can tartar become a health problem but it can also become cosmetically concerning.

How do I know if I have tartar buildup?
Tartar itself is manifested on the teeth as a yellow or brown discoloration that is usually apparent above the gum line (although it frequently also exists below the gum line).  Plaque does not necessarily have a distinguishable color to it, so you may not be able to see excess plaque until it turns into tartar and at that point only your dentist can remove it.

How can I prevent tartar buildup?
Preventing tartar buildup is as easy as removing plaque.  Plaque is removes by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly (brushing at least twice a day, preferably after each meal and flossing at least once a day).  Also, it is important to keep regular appointments with your dentist so that he can remove any tartar buildup and clean away any missed plaque.  Your dentist will use a process called scaling to remove tartar.  The dentist or dental hygienist will use special dental instruments to remove the tartar above and below the gum line.

Can toothpastes prevent tartar buildup?
Toothpastes can prevent the buildup of tarter but they cannot remove it once it has formed.  Also toothpastes help clean away the plaque that causes tartar.  The best cleaning you can get is from your dentist and no toothpaste can replace regular dental cleanings.