| Quick Answer: Tartar (also called calculus) is plaque that has hardened on the teeth. It forms when daily plaque isn’t brushed and flossed away, often along the gumline and behind the lower front teeth. Once it hardens, it can’t be brushed off — only a dental cleaning removes it. Prevent it with twice-daily brushing, daily flossing, less sugar, and regular cleanings. |
Noticed a hard, yellowish crust building up near your child’s gumline? That’s tartar, and it’s more common in kids than many parents expect. Our kid-focused dentists at South Valley Children’s Dentistry in Albuquerque can remove it easily — and help you keep it from coming back.
Plaque vs. Tartar: What’s the Difference?
Plaque is the soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth all day. Brushing and flossing remove it. When plaque isn’t cleaned away, minerals in saliva harden it into tartar (calculus) — a rough, crusty deposit that bonds to the tooth and can no longer be brushed off.
What Causes Tartar in Kids?
- Inconsistent or rushed brushing and skipped flossing
- Sugary and starchy diets that feed plaque bacteria
- Crowded teeth that are harder to clean
- Mouth breathing, which dries saliva and speeds buildup
Tartar tends to gather where brushing is easy to miss — along the gumline and behind the lower front teeth.
Why Tartar Matters
Beyond looking dull and yellow, tartar traps bacteria against the teeth and gums. In children that can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis), bad breath, and a higher risk of cavities. Removing it and preventing its return keeps gums healthy as permanent teeth come in.
Can You Remove Tartar at Home?
No. Once plaque hardens into tartar, brushing and flossing can’t remove it — and home “scraping” tools risk damaging the gums and enamel. Tartar removal should be done by a dental professional during a cleaning. The good news is that a routine visit handles it quickly and painlessly.
How to Prevent Tartar Buildup
- Brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste — supervise younger kids.
- Floss daily, especially where teeth touch.
- Limit sugary and starchy snacks; offer water.
- Keep regular cleanings so any buildup is caught early.
Visit South Valley Children’s Dentistry
Our kid-focused team on Coors Blvd SW makes cleanings quick and comfortable, and we’re happy to coach your child on the brushing and flossing habits that keep tartar away. We welcome South Valley families and care for children from 9 months through age 18 (special needs to 26). Contact our office to schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is tartar on children’s teeth?
Tartar (calculus) is plaque that has hardened on the teeth. It forms when daily plaque isn’t brushed and flossed away, often along the gumline, and can only be removed by a dental cleaning.
What causes tartar buildup in kids?
Inconsistent brushing and flossing, sugary or starchy diets, crowded teeth that are hard to clean, and mouth breathing that dries saliva all contribute to tartar.
Can I remove my child’s tartar at home?
No. Once plaque hardens into tartar it can’t be brushed off, and home scraping tools can damage gums and enamel. A dental cleaning removes it safely.
Is tartar bad for my child’s teeth?
Yes. Tartar traps bacteria against teeth and gums, which can cause gum inflammation, bad breath, and a higher cavity risk.
How do I prevent tartar on my child’s teeth?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, limit sugary snacks, and keep up regular dental cleanings.
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Noticing buildup on your child’s teeth? We truly care about your child’s health and happiness. Reach out to get your child’s appointment scheduled. We can’t wait to see you. South Valley Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics │ 3510 Coors Blvd SW, Suite A, Albuquerque, NM 87121 │ (505) 873-4444 │ Contact Us → |