How to Remove Tartar from Teeth Without a Dentist

As a practicing dentist at LiT Dental Clinic, one of the most common questions is:
“Can I remove tartar from my teeth at home without visiting a dentist?”

While the safest and most effective method is professional dental cleaning, there are early interventions and at-home practices that can help manage plaque before it hardens into tartar. Below, I’ll walk you through what works, what doesn’t, and what to do when you spot black tartar on teeth.

What Is Tartar?

Tartar, or dental calculus, is a hard, crusty deposit that forms when plaque (a biofilm of bacteria) is not properly removed. When left untreated, plaque absorbs minerals from your saliva and calcifies into tartar, especially around the gumline and between teeth.

Once tartar forms, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and can lead to:

• Gingivitis (early gum disease)
  
• Periodontitis (advanced gum infection)
  
• Tooth discoloration, especially black tartar on teeth
  
• Bad breath and oral infections
  

Can You Remove Tartar from Teeth at Home?

If the tartar buildup is light and hasn’t yet calcified, there are methods to help remove tartar from teeth at home. However, once hardened, tartar must be professionally removed using tools like ultrasonic scalers and curettes.

Still, here’s how you can minimize and manage tartar buildup at home:

Dentist-Approved Home Remedies to Manage Tartar

1. Baking Soda + Hydrogen Peroxide Paste

This combination can break down plaque and lighten surface stains. Use 1 tsp of baking soda with a few drops of 3% hydrogen peroxide to make a paste. Brush gently with it 1–2 times per week.

2. Tartar-Control Toothpaste

Look for products containing pyrophosphates or zinc citrate, both clinically proven to reduce calculus formation.

3. Oil Pulling

Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial effects. Swishing 1 tbsp for 10–15 minutes may reduce oral bacteria and prevent plaque buildup.

4. Electric Toothbrush with Soft Bristles

These provide more thorough cleaning, especially near the gumline, helping to dislodge soft plaque before it hardens.

5. Floss + Water Flosser Combo

Daily flossing plus using a water flosser can remove food debris and biofilm from hard-to-reach areas where tartar often starts.

What About Black Tartar on Teeth?

Black tartar on teeth typically results from long-standing calculus that has absorbed pigments from coffee, tea, tobacco, or even blood from irritated gums. Unfortunately, this kind of tartar is impossible to remove safely at home and often indicates subgingival (below the gum line) calculus, which can lead to bone loss if ignored.

Professional scaling and polishing are required to:

• Fully remove tartar above and below the gumline
  
• Prevent or stop gum disease
  
• Brighten your teeth by removing deep stains
  

At LiT Dental Clinic, our dental hygienists use ultrasonic and hand instruments to gently and thoroughly remove all tartar deposits, followed by polishing for a smooth, clean finish.

Alarming Signs: Why More Care May Be Needed

While using those methods is useful for early plaque, it’s necessary to realise when tartar is too much for them. These signs should signal that you require the help of experts.

• If you notice any rough, lumpy deposits along your gums that your toothbrush can’t remove, it’s calcified tartar that should be cleaned by a dentist.
• No Skin in the Game: Brushing and mouth washing probably won’t help, where chronic bad breath comes from bacteria firmly stuck in tartar buildup.
• Gums that bleed or are red and swollen while brushing could be an indication of early gum disease caused by tartar.
• If tartar accumulates, it can expose the roots of your teeth, which in turn leads to you being more sensitive to hot, cold or sweet meals or drinks.

From general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry to emergency care, LiT Dental provides the best dental care. The LiT Dental team of professionals is dedicated to providing you with the shiny smile that boosts your confidence. 

The Rule of 72

Not many people realise that within three days of its formation, plaque hardens into tartar. This shows you should take care of your home the same way every single day. Not cleaning your teeth correctly for 2-3 days can allow plaque to turn into hard tartar in places that are hard to brush.

That is why I advise my patients at LiT Dental Clinic: the effort to keep your teeth healthy needs to be made every day. Once you sense the fuzzy feeling on your teeth, plaque has already started to mineralize.

Looking for Whiter Teeth After Tartar Removal?

Once tartar is gone, many patients notice yellow or uneven tooth color left behind. That’s because tartar often masks stains and enamel imperfections.

Our teeth whitening treatments are designed to restore brightness after a deep cleaning session, giving you a healthier and visibly whiter smile.

Learn more about our in-office and take-home whitening options
https://litdentalclinic.com/cosmetic-dentistry/teeth-whitening/ 

Final Expert Advice

• Preventing tartar is easier than removing it.
  
• Home remedies help, but they only delay—not eliminate—tartar buildup.
  
• If you notice black tartar on teeth or bad breath, book a professional cleaning as soon as possible.
  
• Follow up with whitening if you’re concerned about the color and aesthetics.

Book a Consultation at LiT Dental Clinic

If you’re struggling with tartar buildup or want a brighter smile, our experienced dental team is here to help. Contact LiT Dental Clinic for a personalized treatment plan that prioritizes both your health and confidence.