Tartar is a hardened layer of plaque that forms on the teeth.

Plaque is a biofilm of bacteria present on tooth surfaces. When not cleaned, this layer hardens due to precipitation of minerals from the saliva forming a layer known as calculus/tartar. If not removed, plaque can cause tooth decay and gum problems.

Tartar is hard and cannot be removed by brushing. Visit a dentist is essential.

If left unattended, this layer of tartar can cause the destruction of healthy gum tissues and eventually tooth loss (periodontitis).