Black Tartar on Teeth: What It Is, Why It’s Riskier, and How to Fix It

Have you noticed a dark or black buildup along your gumline or between your teeth? It may be black tartar, a hardened deposit that develops when you don’t fully remove plaque. Here’s what black tartar on teeth means and how to get rid of it.

Unlike soft plaque, once tartar hardens, regular brushing and flossing cannot remove it. You typically need a professional dental cleaning to remove it safely.

What Is Black Tartar on Teeth?

Plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria that forms on your teeth every day. If you don’t remove plaque regularly, minerals in saliva can cause it to harden into tartar, also known as calculus.

Tartar is often yellow or brown, but it can sometimes appear dark brown or black. Dark tartar may develop because of staining, blood products from bleeding gums, tobacco use, certain foods or drinks, or other factors.

Why Can Black Tartar Be a Concern?

Black tartar is not necessarily more dangerous simply because of its color. However, its presence may indicate significant tartar buildup, especially when it extends below the gumline.

Tartar creates a rough surface where more plaque can collect, increasing the risk of gum inflammation and gum disease. If you leave tartar buildup untreated, gum disease can become more serious and may eventually affect the tissues supporting your teeth.

Can You Remove It at Home?

No. Once plaque hardens into tartar, brushing and flossing alone cannot remove it.

Trying to scrape tartar off with sharp or metal tools at home can damage your teeth and gums. Professional dental cleanings use specialized instruments to safely remove tartar buildup.

After your cleaning, maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce future plaque accumulation.

How Do Dentists Treat Black Tartar?

Treatment depends on the amount and location of the tartar buildup.

For tartar above the gumline, your dentist may recommend a professional dental cleaning. If significant buildup is present below the gumline or gum disease has developed, you may need additional periodontal treatment.

Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Simple Prevention Tips

You can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup by:

• Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste

• Flossing every day

• Cleaning carefully along the gumline

• Limiting tobacco use

• Drinking water regularly

• Scheduling routine dental checkups and professional cleanings

Regular dental visits can help remove tartar before it contributes to more serious oral health concerns.

Get Help for Black Tartar on Teeth

In short, a professional cleaning is the safest way to remove black tartar on teeth. After that, regular checkups help keep it from coming back. Learn more about preventive care and periodontal treatments at our Muncie office, or read the American Dental Association’s guide to plaque.

Don’t Ignore Dark Buildup on Your Teeth

If you notice black or dark deposits on your teeth, don’t assume it will disappear with brushing. A professional dental evaluation can determine whether it is tartar, staining, tooth decay, or another concern.

At Affinity Family Dental Muncie, we provide personalized preventive dental care to help patients maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Schedule your dental appointment today for a professional evaluation and cleaning to help restore a healthier, brighter smile.