Dental tartar, also known as calculus, is a hardened form of dental plaque that accumulates on tooth surfaces. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria, food particles, and saliva that constantly forms in the mouth. When plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it absorbs minerals from saliva and hardens, forming tartar. While tartar can vary in color, black tartar represents a distinct and often more concerning type of buildup that requires specific attention.
Identifying Black Tartar
Black tartar presents as a dark, typically deep black or dark brown, hardened deposit on the teeth. It is firmly attached to the tooth surface and has a rough, gritty texture. Unlike superficial stains that might be brushed away, black tartar cannot be removed by at-home oral hygiene practices. It commonly forms along or beneath the gum line, particularly on the inner surfaces of the lower front teeth and sometimes between teeth. The presence of black tartar often signals a more established and potentially deeper issue than lighter-colored tartar.
Causes of Black Tartar
Several factors contribute to tartar developing a dark or black appearance. Certain chromogenic bacteria in the mouth produce dark pigments, leading to black stains on teeth. These bacteria interact with iron compounds in the mouth, forming dark pigments. Bleeding gums can also contribute to black tartar. When gums bleed, blood can become incorporated into the tartar, and iron compounds can oxidize, leading to dark coloration.
Lifestyle and dietary choices significantly influence the color of tartar. Regular consumption of staining agents such as coffee, tea, and red wine can discolor tartar. Tobacco use, including smoking or chewing, is a prominent factor, as the chemicals and tars can deeply stain existing tartar. Certain medications, such as iron supplements or some antibiotics, can also cause tooth discoloration that may contribute to or be mistaken for black tartar.
Addressing Black Tartar
Attempting to scrape black tartar off at home can damage tooth enamel and potentially harm the gums, leading to further complications. Professional dental intervention is necessary for its removal, typically through a procedure known as scaling and root planing. Scaling involves using specialized instruments, including manual tools and ultrasonic devices, to scrape off the hardened deposits from both above and below the gum line. Root planing then smooths the tooth root surfaces, which helps prevent bacteria from reattaching and promotes gum reattachment to the teeth.
Prevention
Preventing black tartar involves consistent and thorough oral hygiene practices. Brushing teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing once daily helps remove plaque before it can harden into tartar. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, typically every six months, are important for removing any accumulating plaque and tartar that at-home care might miss. Limiting the consumption of dark-colored foods and beverages, as well as quitting tobacco use, can also reduce the risk of tartar discoloration and formation.