Short answer: Tartar removal (scaling) is the removal by a dentist, using ultrasonic and hand instruments, of hardened plaque that builds up on the tooth surfaces and along the gum line and cannot be removed with a toothbrush. For most people, it is recommended every 6–12 months; it may be needed more often for those with a history of gum disease. When done correctly, it does not damage tooth enamel. Mild sensitivity may be felt for a few days afterwards.
Even in people who brush and floss regularly, hard yellowish or brownish deposits can form over time on the back surfaces of the teeth, especially on the inside of the lower front teeth. These deposits are tartar, and they cannot be removed with a toothbrush. Tartar removal is one of the most basic and most frequently used preventive procedures for protecting oral health. In this guide, we look at how tartar forms, how the cleaning is done, how often it is needed and common concerns.
What is tartar, and how does it form?
Tartar is a calcified layer that forms when bacterial plaque building up on the tooth surfaces hardens with the calcium and phosphate minerals in saliva. Its medical name is "calculus." Plaque is a soft, sticky layer of bacteria that begins to form on the teeth within minutes after eating. When it is not cleaned regularly and properly, it starts to harden within a few days.
Tartar builds up most in the following areas:
- The inner surfaces of the lower front teeth, because they are close to where the salivary glands open into the mouth
- The cheek-facing surfaces of the upper molars
- The gum line and the spaces between the teeth
- Crowded areas of the teeth that are hard to brush
There are two types of tartar: supragingival tartar, which is seen above the gum line and is usually yellowish, and subgingival tartar, which sits below the gum line, sticks to the root of the tooth and is darker in color. Subgingival tartar cannot be seen with the naked eye, but it plays an important role in the progression of gum disease.
The rough surface of tartar makes it easier for new plaque to cling. This cycle can lead to gum inflammation, bleeding, bad breath and, if left untreated, loss of the bone that supports the teeth. Smoking and drinking tea and coffee cause tartar to become stained.
How is the cleaning done?
Tartar removal is carried out by a dentist using ultrasonic devices and hand instruments to remove tartar and plaque from all surfaces of the teeth. The procedure is usually completed in a single session and in most cases takes 30–60 minutes.
- Examination: The condition of the teeth and gums is examined; if needed, the depth of the gum pockets is measured and X-rays are assessed.
- Ultrasonic cleaning: Hard tartar is loosened from the tooth surface with a thin vibrating tip and a spray of water. The water both cools the area and washes away the broken-off pieces.
- Cleaning with hand instruments: Narrow areas the ultrasonic tip cannot reach and small remaining deposits are cleaned with special hand instruments.
- Polishing: The tooth surfaces are polished with special polishing pastes. A smooth surface makes it harder for plaque to cling again. In some cases, surface stains can also be removed with air-powder polishing systems.
- Guidance: Personalized advice is given on brushing and on using dental floss and interdental brushes.
Most people tolerate tartar removal comfortably. For patients with sensitive gums or heavy tartar below the gum line, local anesthesia can be used to increase comfort. If there are deep deposits and pockets below the gum line, additional gum treatments beyond a standard cleaning, such as root planing, are planned.
How often should tartar be removed?
For most adults, tartar removal is recommended every 6–12 months; however, this interval varies with the person's tendency to form tartar, the health of their gums and their general health. The rate at which tartar forms varies greatly from person to person; saliva composition, diet and oral care are the main reasons for this difference.
Situations in which more frequent cleaning, for example every 3–4 months, may be needed:
- A history of gum disease (periodontitis) or previous treatment for it
- Rapid tartar formation
- Smoking
- General health conditions that affect gum health, such as diabetes
- Fixed orthodontic appliances, bridges or implants
- Increased gum sensitivity during pregnancy
The interval that suits you is determined by your dentist at your checkups.
Does tartar removal damage the teeth?
No, tartar removal done with the correct technique does not damage tooth enamel. Ultrasonic tips vibrate in a way that separates the tartar from the enamel; they do not wear away the tooth structure. This is one of the most frequently heard concerns, and it usually stems from a misconception.
After cleaning, some people feel that "gaps have opened between my teeth" or that "my teeth seem loose." The reason is that tartar that has built up over a long time fills the spaces between the teeth and can even appear to hold the teeth together. When the tartar is removed, the gum recession and gaps it was hiding become visible. In other words, the cleaning does not create the gaps; it only reveals the existing situation. As gum inflammation subsides, the gums tighten and the feeling of looseness usually decreases.
On the contrary, not removing tartar can lead to gum disease, bone loss and, eventually, tooth loss. For this reason, it is postponing the cleaning that poses the real risk to the teeth.
Is sensitivity after cleaning normal?
Yes, mild sensitivity to cold and slight soreness in the gums lasting a few days after tartar removal is normal. Especially in people who have not had a cleaning for a long time, who have heavy tartar or who have gum recession, the sensitivity may be more noticeable, because tooth surfaces that were covered by tartar are exposed.
Things you can do during this period:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a desensitizing toothpaste
- Avoid very cold and very hot foods and drinks for the first few days
- Continue brushing and flossing gently
Slight gum bleeding may also occur in the first day or two. If the sensitivity lasts longer than a week or two or keeps getting worse, you should let your dentist know; if necessary, desensitizing treatments can be applied.
Why is cleaning important before clear aligner treatment?
Having tartar removed before starting clear aligner treatment is important both for gum health and for planning the treatment accurately. Orthodontic treatment can be carried out safely on healthy gums and bone; moving teeth while there is active gum inflammation is not recommended.
Benefits of cleaning for the clear aligner process:
- Accurate digital scanning: Tartar can alter the true shape of the teeth in the digital impression taken with an intraoral scanner. Clean tooth surfaces help the aligners fit better.
- Attachment bonding: The tooth surface needs to be clean so that the small, tooth-colored bumps bonded to the teeth during treatment (attachments) can hold firmly.
- Gum health: Since aligners are worn 20–22 hours a day, inflamed gums can become more irritated during this process.
Throughout treatment, the cleaning is repeated at regular checkups if needed. At our clinic, clear aligner treatment is provided only with Invisalign; you can read about the stages of the process on our clear aligner treatment page.
When should you book a tartar removal appointment in Ankara?
If more than a year has passed since your last cleaning, if you have noticed hard deposits on the inner surfaces of your teeth, if your gums bleed when you brush, or if you are planning to start orthodontic treatment, it is a good idea to schedule a checkup and cleaning appointment. At our polyclinic in Park Oran Ofis in Çankaya, we carry out the cleaning together with a comprehensive assessment of your gum health. To make an appointment, you can take a look at our contact page.
Frequently asked questions
Does tartar removal hurt?
Most people tolerate the procedure comfortably; vibration and mild sensitivity may be felt in the teeth. For people with sensitive gums or heavy tartar below the gum line, local anesthesia can be used.
Does tartar removal make the teeth thinner?
No. Cleaning done with the correct technique removes only the tartar and does not wear away tooth enamel. Gaps noticed after cleaning are due to existing gum recession that the tartar was previously hiding.
Can tartar be removed at home?
No, hardened tartar cannot be safely removed with a toothbrush or home tools. What you can do at home is prevent plaque from turning into tartar by brushing and flossing regularly.
Is tartar removal necessary before clear aligner treatment?
It is generally recommended. Clean tooth surfaces are important for accurate digital scanning and for attachments to hold firmly; in addition, healthy gums are a basic requirement for orthodontic treatment to be carried out safely.
