Dentist Essex

Plaque and Tartar: How They Form and How They Are Removed

Educational, not clinical advice. Facts checked on 2026-10-13 against the primary sources listed at the end (NHS.uk, GDC, CQC and peer-reviewed research). Ask your dentist about your own case.

Updated 2026-10-13

TL;DR: Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth every day and can be removed by brushing and cleaning between the teeth. Tartar, or calculus, is plaque that has hardened and can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist. Leaving either in place raises the risk of gum disease and decay. This guide has 9 sections and answers 3 frequently asked questions. It lists 4 primary sources, from NHS.uk and cochrane.org. Facts were checked on 2026-10-13; it is educational information, not clinical advice.

Educational information only, not clinical advice. Facts are checked against the primary sources listed under Sources (NHS.uk, GDC, CQC and peer-reviewed research), last checked 13 October 2026.

What is plaque?

Plaque is a soft film of bacteria that builds up on teeth and along the gum line. It forms continuously, and sugars in food and drink feed the bacteria, which produce acids and irritate the gums. Plaque is usually removable at home with thorough brushing and interdental cleaning.

What is tartar?

Tartar, also called calculus, forms when plaque hardens after absorbing minerals from saliva. It is a rough, yellowish or brown deposit, often at the gum line and behind the lower front teeth. Tartar cannot be brushed off. It gives plaque a rough surface to cling to, which speeds up further build-up.

Why does tartar matter?

Tartar and the plaque on it inflame the gums, which can lead to gingivitis and later periodontitis. See gum disease from gingivitis to periodontitis. Plaque acids also cause tooth decay.

How is tartar removed?

A dentist or hygienist removes tartar with scaling, using hand instruments or an ultrasonic device, and may polish afterwards. The treatment is called a scale and polish. Deeper deposits below the gum line may need a more detailed cleaning over several visits. See dental hygienist visit.

Home products cannot remove tartar safely. Scraping at it with sharp tools can damage teeth and gums.

How do I keep plaque under control?

The NHS advises brushing twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between teeth once a day with interdental brushes or floss. Brush last thing at night and on one other occasion. Reducing how often you eat and drink sugary items also helps. Disclosing tablets, available from pharmacies, can show where plaque remains.

Do electric toothbrushes help?

Some people find an electric toothbrush easier to use well, and a dentist or hygienist can advise. Technique and consistency matter more than the device. Ask at your next visit.

When should I see a dentist?

See a dentist if you have bleeding or swollen gums, bad breath that does not clear, or visible hard deposits. Check current NHS fees on NHS.uk. You can browse Essex dentists in the Essex directory.

What can home tools do, and what can they not?

Brushing and cleaning between teeth remove plaque. Tartar is plaque that has hardened and bonded to the tooth, so brushing does not lift it. Metal scrapers can scratch enamel and injure gums, which then makes plaque stick more easily. Treat visible tartar as a job for a hygienist.

For electric brushes, the Cochrane review of powered versus manual toothbrushing (CD002281, 2014) found an 11% greater reduction in plaque at one to three months of use and 21% after three months, and 6% and 11% greater reductions in gingivitis at the same points. The review rated the evidence as moderate quality.

Daily routine card

  • Twice a day: brush for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste.
  • Once a day: clean between teeth with interdental brushes or floss.
  • Spit rather than rinse after brushing, so fluoride stays on your teeth.

Book a clean if you see a hard yellow or brown deposit at the gumline that you cannot brush off, or if gums still bleed or smell after two weeks of careful cleaning.

Related questions covered elsewhere in this topic: sensitive teeth.

To find a practice, browse dentists in Essex by district.

FAQ

Can I remove tartar myself?

No. Tartar needs professional removal, and DIY scraping can cause damage.

Does plaque cause bad breath?

Plaque and gum inflammation can contribute to bad breath. A dentist can check for the cause.

How often should I have a scale and polish?

It depends on your gums and risk. The dentist or hygienist sets the interval.

Sources