Top 5 Toothpaste to Remove Tartar: Expert Guide

Does your smile feel less than its brightest, perhaps a little rough around the edges? You might be noticing that stubborn, yellowish buildup clinging to your teeth – that’s tartar, and it’s a common headache for many of us. Dealing with tartar is frustrating because it doesn’t just disappear with regular brushing. Many people feel stuck choosing toothpaste, overwhelmed by labels promising “deep cleaning” or “tartar control” without truly understanding what works.

Understanding how to fight tartar at home can save you time and money on frequent dental visits. This guide cuts through the marketing noise. We will explore exactly what tartar is and, more importantly, which ingredients in toothpaste actually help break down and prevent this hard deposit.

By the end of this post, you will know precisely what to look for on the tube and feel confident picking a toothpaste that supports a cleaner, healthier mouth. Ready to take control of your oral hygiene and reveal your best smile? Let’s dive into the science of fighting tartar with the right paste.

Top Toothpaste To Remove Tartar Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1

Plaque & Tartar Remover Toothpaste for Teeth: Removes Plaque & Controls Tartar Build-up - Long-Lasting Fresh Breath, Deep Cleansing & Gum-Friendly Toothpaste for Adults & Kids, Mint

Deep Plaque Remover for Teeth: Say goodbye to stubborn plaque with our professional plaque remover for teeth. Designed to reach deep between teeth and along the gumline, this anti-plaque toothpaste helps break down and remove hard plaque buildup, leaving your teeth feeling smooth and clean. Achieve a dentist-like deep clean at home with every brush.
Advanced Tartar Control Toothpaste, Reduce Plaque Buildup: Prevent tartar formation before it hardens! Our tartar control toothpaste is formulated with powerful plaque-fighting ingredients to reduce plaque buildup and stop tartar from forming. Regular use supports stronger, healthier teeth while keeping your smile bright and fresh. Ideal for adults and kids seeking a complete dental care solution.
Long-Lasting Fresh Breath, Say Goodbye to Bad Odor: Enjoy long-lasting fresh breath with every use! Our advanced formula neutralizes odor-causing bacteria, helping you eliminate bad breath at the source. Infused with refreshing mint, this dental toothpaste keeps your mouth feeling cool and clean throughout the day—perfect for home or on-the-go freshness.
Gentle Gum Care, Reduce Bleeding: Soothe and protect your gums with our gentle yet effective formula. Designed for sensitive gums, it helps reduce gum irritation, swelling, and occasional bleeding while strengthening your gum health. A must-have for anyone struggling with gum disease, gingivitis, or gum recession. Experience a comfortable, irritation-free brushing experience.
Easy & Safe to Use: Our anti-plaque toothpaste is designed for daily use by adults & kids, making it a safe and effective choice for the whole family. It provides professional-grade plaque removal while being gentle on enamel, ensuring a worry-free brushing experience. Use it as part of your daily dental care routine for stronger, healthier teeth.

Bestseller No. 2

LIVFRESH Toothpaste Gel, Clinically Proven to Remove Plaque 250% Better, Improves Gum Health 190% Better, Prevents & Reduces Tartar, Freshens Breath, SLS Free Dental Gel, Wintergreen

CLINICALLY PROVEN - LIVFRESH removes plaque 250% better, improves gum health 190% more, reduces tartar, eliminates bad breath, soothes dry mouth, and gently whitens teeth better than leading toothpaste brands. Brushing with LIVFRESH can help you save thousands by improving your oral health and preventing expensive dental procedures.
26 RESEARCH STUDIES - Our science is verified by 26 research studies, over 40 patents, and is supported by academic grants awarded by the United States Department of Defense. Based on 10 years of Research & Development, LIVFRESH was formulated by PhDs and scientists from Stanford and Berkeley.
HOW IT WORKS - Protected by 40+ patents, our proprietary formula breaks the bond between plaque and your teeth, removing plaque from your teeth and preventing new plaque from attaching to them. Our gel toothpaste gives you a deep, long-lasting clean in hard-to-reach areas near the gums and in-between teeth.
TRUSTED & RECOMMENDED - Thousands of dental professionals, including the former President of the American Dental Association (ADA) and the former President of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), use and recommend LIVFRESH to their patients. Clinical Professors and Lecturers from Harvard, UCLA, UC Irvine, and other top institutions actively support LIVFRESH.
SAFE FOR ALL AGES - Proudly made in America, LIVFRESH uses 100% edible ingredients and is SLS-Free. Our gel toothpaste contains zero abrasives, sulfates, phthalates, and parabens. It is also free of triclosan, gluten, and sugar.

SaleBestseller No. 3

Colgate Total Plaque Pro Release Whitening Toothpaste Pack, Whitening Fluoride Toothpaste, Fights Plaque, Bad Breath, Tartar Buildup, and Helps Protect Teeth from Sensitivity, 2 Pack, 3.0 oz

INCLUDES TWO 3.0 OZ TUBES: Convenient 2 pack of Colgate Total Plaque Pro Release Whitening Toothpaste, Mint flavored
2X LESS PLAQUE BUILDUP*: Dissolves and lifts away gum-harming plaque with twice daily brushing
PROMOTES GUM HEALTH: Helps interfere with the effects of plaque bacteria linked to gingivitis for healthy gums
WHITENING BENEFITS: Whitens teeth for a brighter smile
SMART FOAM TECHNOLOGY: Toothpaste penetrates hard-to-reach places to fight plaque bacteria along the gum line

SaleBestseller No. 4

REMBRANDT Intense Stain Whitening Toothpaste With Fluoride, Removes Tough Stains, Rehardens And Strengthens Enamel, 3.5 Ounce - (Pack of 2)

Includes: 2-3.5 oz Tube of REMBRANDT Intense Stain Whitening Toothpaste
Formulated: Our special formula contains micro-polishers, stain fighters, and fluoride to fight tough stains like red wine, berries, coffee, and tobacco without damaging your teeth
Instructions: This safe for daily-use whitening toothpaste contains fluoride to help strengthen and restore enamel
Flavor: Enjoy the delicious, refreshing mint flavor while you polish away years of tough stains
Whiter Teeth in 3 Days Based on in vitro laboratory testing

Bestseller No. 5

Crest Tartar Protection Toothpaste, Regular Paste, 8.550 Lb, 5.7 Oz

Helps stop cavities before they start thanks to the clinically proven Fluoristat
Fights tartar build-up
Freshens breath for a clean feeling mouth
Approved by ADA (American Dental Association)

Bestseller No. 6

TartarEnd Toothpaste for Tartar Removal - Tartar Control Toothpaste to Remove Tartar and Plaque from Teeth at Home and Prevent Tartar and Plaque Buildup - 3.4 oz Tube, 1-Pack (Minty Wintergreen)

PROVEN TOOTHPASTE FOR CALCULUS, TARTAR and PLAQUE REMOVAL: TartarEnd is the only toothpaste that dissolves calculus, tartar and plaque above and deep below the gum line, proven to remove calculus, tartar and plaque. Over seven years of calculus, tartar and plaque-free teeth reports from users, hygienists, dentists, periodontists, patients, and researchers.
GENTLY SOFTENS TARTAR WHILE YOUR TOOTHBRUSH REMOVES IT: Before TartarEnd toothpaste's innovative plaque and tartar dissolving technology, the only option for removing built-up tartar from the patient’s teeth was by scaling and deep root planing with sharp metal scrapers.
BENEFITS: Dissolves and removes calculus, tartar and plaque; stops bleeding gums; relieves sensitive teeth; prevents bad breath; relieves dry mouth; stops cavity formation; and reduces gum pocket depths for improved gum and enamel health. It tastes like mild wintergreen for a fresh clean mouth feel.
WHO IT IS FOR: Tartar removal and control toothpaste, TartarEnd, is for those looking for a calculus, tartar and plaque remover they can use at home. Ideal for those concerned with bleeding gums, deepening gum pockets, tooth loss, and overall healthcare costs.
TOOTHBRUSH RECOMMENDATIONS: Light to moderate tartar producers can use manual toothbrushes. If you have heavy tartar buildup and tartar in gum pockets deeper than 2 mm, you should use 31,000 vibrations per minute and a high-amplitude sonic toothbrush.

Bestseller No. 7

DENTI BUONGIORNO Plaque Care Toothpaste (Lemon Mint) – Deep Clean for Tartar Control & Heavy Plaque, Natural Whitening(Baking Soda), Cavity Protection, Paraben & SLS Free (3.52fl oz / 100g)

PLAQUE & TARTAR REMOVAL (DEEP CLEAN) – Powered by high-content Silica 17% and Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate 0.5%, this formula gently removes plaque and tartar buildup for cleaner, healthier teeth while providing an intense deep clean.
NATURAL WHITENING WITH BAKING SODA – The dual-action formula with sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) helps lift surface stains for a brighter, more radiant smile, working alongside the plaque removal action.
GINGIVITIS PREVENTION WITH VITAMIN E – Enriched with Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate 0.20%), it helps prevent gingivitis (gum inflammation) and promotes overall oral health, ensuring the deep cleaning process remains gentle on gums.
CAVITY PREVENTION & ENAMEL PROTECTION – Contains Sodium Fluoride 0.22% which strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities for long-term oral health and protection against acid attacks.
PARABEN & SLS FREE FORMULA: A gentle, non-toxic daily toothpaste formulated without harsh chemicals. It effectively fights against Plaque & Tartar Build-up, delivering a professional deep clean sensation that lasts all day.

Bestseller No. 8

Plaque & Tartar Remover Toothpaste for Teeth: Removes Plaque & Controls Tartar Build-up - Long-Lasting Fresh Breath, Deep Cleansing & Gum-Friendly Formula, Wintergreen

Deep Plaque Remover for Teeth: Say goodbye to stubborn plaque with our professional plaque remover for teeth. Designed to reach deep between teeth and along the gumline, this anti-plaque toothpaste helps break down and remove hard plaque buildup, leaving your teeth feeling smooth and clean. Achieve a dentist-like deep clean at home with every brush.
Advanced Tartar Control Toothpaste, Reduce Plaque Buildup: Prevent tartar formation before it hardens! Our tartar control toothpaste is formulated with powerful plaque-fighting ingredients to reduce plaque buildup and stop tartar from forming. Regular use supports stronger, healthier teeth while keeping your smile bright and fresh. Ideal for adults and kids seeking a complete dental care solution.
Long-Lasting Fresh Breath, Say Goodbye to Bad Odor: Enjoy long-lasting fresh breath with every use! Our advanced formula neutralizes odor-causing bacteria, helping you eliminate bad breath at the source. Infused with refreshing mint, this dental toothpaste keeps your mouth feeling cool and clean throughout the day—perfect for home or on-the-go freshness.
Gentle Gum Care, Reduce Bleeding: Soothe and protect your gums with our gentle yet effective formula. Designed for sensitive gums, it helps reduce gum irritation, swelling, and occasional bleeding while strengthening your gum health. A must-have for anyone struggling with gum disease, gingivitis, or gum recession. Experience a comfortable, irritation-free brushing experience.
Easy & Safe to Use: Our anti-plaque toothpaste is designed for daily use by adults & kids, making it a safe and effective choice for the whole family. It provides professional-grade plaque removal while being gentle on enamel, ensuring a worry-free brushing experience. Use it as part of your daily dental care routine for stronger, healthier teeth.

Your Guide to Choosing Toothpaste That Fights Tartar

Tartar, that hard, yellowish buildup on your teeth, needs more than just regular brushing to remove. While professional cleanings are best, the right toothpaste can help you manage and reduce tartar buildup between visits. This guide helps you pick the best defense for your smile.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping for tartar-control toothpaste, look for specific ingredients that actively target mineralized plaque (tartar).

Pyrophosphates: These chemicals slow down the process of tartar hardening. They are very common in good tartar-control formulas.
Zinc Citrate or Zinc Chloride: These ingredients help prevent new plaque from sticking to your teeth. They also fight bad breath.
Fluoride: While fluoride primarily prevents cavities, a strong formula ensures your enamel stays healthy, making it harder for plaque to adhere.
Plaque-Fighting Agents: Look for toothpastes specifically labeled “Tartar Control” or “Tartar Reduction.”

Important Materials and Ingredients

The effectiveness of tartar toothpaste relies heavily on its active ingredients. Understand what these materials do:

Active Ingredients: Always confirm the active ingredients listed on the box. Pyrophosphates and zinc compounds are the stars here.
Abrasives (Gentle Ones): Toothpaste needs mild abrasives (like hydrated silica) to gently polish away soft plaque before it turns into hard tartar. Too harsh an abrasive can damage your gums.
Flavoring and Texture: While not directly related to tartar removal, ingredients like mint or spearmint affect your daily user experience. A pleasant taste encourages regular use.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Not all tartar toothpastes work the same. Quality depends on how well the formula balances cleaning power with gentle care.

High-Quality Formulas: Toothpastes that combine pyrophosphates with zinc citrate usually offer the best long-term tartar reduction. These ingredients work together effectively.
Lower Quality Indicators: Some cheaper formulas rely heavily on strong abrasives to scrub off plaque. This action can wear down your enamel over time, which is a negative trade-off.
Sensitivity Warning: Sometimes, formulas designed for heavy tartar control can increase tooth sensitivity. If you have sensitive teeth, look for formulas that also include potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride for desensitizing benefits.

User Experience and Use Cases

How you use the toothpaste matters as much as what’s in it. Tartar toothpaste is a tool to support your routine, not replace it.

Daily Consistency: You must brush twice daily for two full minutes to give the active ingredients time to work. Inconsistent use reduces the toothpaste’s effectiveness significantly.
Targeted Areas: Tartar often builds up behind the lower front teeth. Focus your brushing there.
Post-Meal Use: Use this toothpaste after meals when possible to disrupt plaque formation early.
Not a Cure-All: Remember, toothpaste cannot remove existing, hard tartar. If you already have significant buildup, you need a dental scaling appointment. This toothpaste helps stop *new* tartar from forming.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About Tartar-Removing Toothpaste

Q: Can toothpaste completely remove existing tartar?

A: No, toothpaste cannot remove hard, established tartar. Only a dentist or hygienist can safely remove existing tartar through scaling.

Q: How long does it take to see results?

A: You might notice softer plaque buildup within a few weeks, but significant tartar reduction takes several months of consistent use.

Q: Are tartar control toothpastes safe for daily use?

A: Yes, approved tartar control toothpastes are safe for daily use when used as directed. They meet FDA standards for safety.

Q: What is the main ingredient that fights tartar?

A: Pyrophosphates are the primary chemical ingredient dentists look for in tartar-control formulas.

Q: Does this type of toothpaste taste different?

A: Generally, no. Most brands maintain a standard mint flavor, though some zinc-based formulas might have a slightly different aftertaste initially.

Q: Should I use a tartar toothpaste if I don’t have much tartar?

A: It is still beneficial. Using it prevents future buildup, especially if you are prone to plaque formation.

Q: Is tartar toothpaste okay for children?

A: Check the packaging. Many tartar formulas are designed for adults. Children need toothpaste with appropriate fluoride levels for their age.

Q: Does it hurt my enamel if it scrubs hard?

A: Quality toothpastes use gentle abrasives. If you notice excessive sensitivity or gum recession, switch to a toothpaste labeled for sensitive teeth.

Q: Can I use this toothpaste with an electric toothbrush?

A: Absolutely. Electric toothbrushes often enhance the cleaning action of tartar control toothpaste.

Q: Does tartar toothpaste also prevent cavities?

A: Most reputable tartar control toothpastes also contain fluoride, meaning they fight both tartar and cavities.