Tartar isn’t just a cosmetic concern — it can be a warning sign of deeper dental issues. If you’ve noticed black tartar on your teeth or along the gum line, you’re not alone. At Chagger Dental, we help patients across Canada tackle tartar buildup before it leads to more serious oral health problems. In this post, we’ll break down what black tartar is, why it forms, how it affects your oral health, and — most importantly — how to remove black tartar from teeth safely and effectively.
What Is Black Tartar?
Black tartar is a hardened form of dental plaque that appears dark brown or black. It typically forms along the gum line but can also coat the surface of your teeth. The dark colour often comes from:
- The accumulation of minerals in plaque over time
- Pigments from tobacco, coffee, tea, or red wine
- Internal staining due to bleeding gums or decaying bacteria trapped under tartar
Unlike regular plaque, which is soft and nearly colourless, black tartar is firmly attached to the tooth surface and cannot be removed by brushing or flossing alone.
Why Does Black Tartar Form?
Tartar develops when plaque — a sticky film of bacteria — is left on the teeth and hardens over time. Factors that increase your risk of developing black tartar on your teeth or black tartar on the gum line include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Drinking dark-coloured beverages regularly
- Dry mouth or reduced saliva production
- Irregular dental cleanings
If not removed, black tartar can lead to gingivitis, gum recession, and tooth loss.
Can You Remove Black Tartar at Home?
No — black tartar cannot be safely or fully removed at home. Brushing, flossing, or using mouthwash may help prevent tartar, but once it hardens and darkens, it requires professional dental treatment.
Trying to scrape it off yourself with sharp objects or DIY tools can damage your enamel and gums, leading to bleeding, infections, or further tartar buildup.
How to Remove Black Tartar from Teeth (The Right Way)
At Chagger Dental, we use safe, clinical techniques to remove black tartar on teeth and along the gum line, restoring your smile and protecting your oral health:
1. Professional Dental Cleaning (Scaling)
Our dental hygienists perform a deep cleaning using ultrasonic and manual instruments to carefully break down and remove tartar buildup without harming your teeth.
2. Root Planing (For Sub-Gum Tartar)
If the black tartar extends below the gum line, root planing smooths the root surfaces to remove bacteria and help the gums reattach to the teeth. This is often done under local anaesthesia for comfort.
3. Polishing and Fluoride Treatment
After tartar removal, we polish your teeth to prevent plaque from sticking again and apply fluoride to strengthen enamel and protect against future decay.
How to Prevent Black Tartar on Teeth and Gums
Prevention starts with daily habits and regular dental visits. Here’s what you can do:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Use dental floss or an interdental brush to clean between teeth
- Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash
- Avoid or limit smoking, coffee, tea, and sugary foods
- Visit Chagger Dental every 6 months for a professional cleaning
Don’t Wait — Treat Black Tartar Before It Spreads
Left untreated, black tartar can cause serious gum infections and tooth damage. The sooner it’s removed, the better your oral health outlook.
If you’re noticing black tartar on your gum line or teeth, it’s time to act.
📅 Book your dental cleaning at Chagger Dental today and take the first step toward a healthier, brighter smile — free of tartar and full of confidence.
