What Is Tartar?

Tartar, also known as calculus, is hardened plaque that forms on the teeth when plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing. Once tartar forms, it can only be removed by a dentist during a professional cleaning. Tartar buildup can lead to gum disease, cavities, and bad breath, making it essential to address this issue early on.

Signs of Tartar Buildup

If your child has yellow or brown deposits on their teeth, especially along the gumline, it may be tartar. Tartar is rough and can irritate the gums, leading to inflammation, redness, or bleeding. If your child’s gums are swollen or bleed during brushing, this could be a sign that tartar has built up.

Treatment for Tartar Buildup

At Children’s Dental Center, we offer professional dental cleanings to remove tartar and keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy. Regular cleanings help prevent more severe issues like gingivitis or cavities caused by tartar buildup. In more advanced cases, we may recommend scaling and root planing to treat tartar below the gumline. To keep tartar at bay, we recommend scheduling cleanings every six months.