Dental tartar, also known as calculus, is a hardened deposit that forms on teeth. It originates from plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on tooth surfaces. If plaque is not removed through daily oral hygiene, minerals from saliva integrate, causing it to calcify and adhere firmly to the teeth. Once plaque hardens into tartar, it creates a rough and porous surface that can attract even more plaque and bacteria. While often appearing yellowish, tartar can also present in various other shades, including gray or dark tones.
Understanding Tartar Discoloration
Tartar can appear black or dark. This discoloration often suggests underlying factors. While tartar initially begins as a lighter, often yellowish or off-white substance, its color can change over time.
Black tartar typically manifests as dark spots or lines, often seen along the gumline or on the tooth surface. When it forms below the gum line (subgingival calculus), it is darker, appearing dark brown to greenish-black. This darker appearance can be a source of aesthetic concern.
Why Tartar Becomes Black
Several factors contribute to tartar developing a black appearance. One common reason is the presence of bleeding gums, often a sign of gum inflammation or disease. When tartar forms below the gum line, blood from damaged gum tissues can mix with the hardened plaque, leading to a dark, stained appearance. This interaction darkens it.
Certain types of bacteria, known as chromogenic bacteria, also play a role in this discoloration. These microorganisms produce dark pigments that can stain dental plaque and subsequently, the tartar. These stains are typically seen as dark lines or dots, particularly near the gum line.
Consumption of dark-colored foods and beverages can also stain tartar. Items such as coffee, tea, red wine, and certain berries contain pigments or tannins that adhere to the rough surface of tartar, especially if oral hygiene is not thorough.
Tobacco use is a significant contributor to black tartar. Smoking or chewing tobacco can heavily stain teeth and any existing tartar, leading to a dark brown or black discoloration. The chemicals in tobacco products readily adhere to the porous surface of tartar.
Health Implications of Black Tartar
Black tartar is a concern for oral health, often signaling more advanced issues. It provides a rough surface that encourages further accumulation of bacterial plaque. This increased plaque buildup can lead to the development or progression of gum disease, including gingivitis, which causes red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left unaddressed, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, a more severe infection that can damage the bone and connective tissues supporting the teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.
Black tartar also elevates the risk of tooth decay. The rough, porous surface of tartar creates an ideal environment for acid-producing bacteria to thrive, increasing the likelihood of cavities. Additionally, the bacteria harbored within tartar can produce unpleasant odors, leading to persistent bad breath. Beyond these clinical concerns, the dark discoloration can also impact a person’s smile, leading to aesthetic dissatisfaction.
Addressing and Preventing Black Tartar
Removing existing black tartar requires professional dental intervention. It cannot be removed by brushing, flossing, or other home remedies because it is firmly bonded to the tooth surface. Dentists or dental hygienists use specialized tools and procedures like scaling and root planing to scrape away the hardened deposits, especially those below the gum line. This process cleans the tooth surfaces and smooths the root to help prevent new plaque from adhering.
Preventing the formation and darkening of tartar involves consistent and thorough oral hygiene practices. Brushing teeth twice daily for at least two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste is essential. Daily flossing is also important to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gum line, areas where tartar frequently forms.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, typically every six months, are important for early detection and removal of plaque before it hardens into tartar. Limiting the consumption of stain-causing foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, can help reduce discoloration. Rinsing the mouth with water after consuming these items can also help minimize their staining effects. Avoiding all tobacco products is also a significant step, as they are a major cause of both tartar formation and its dark staining.