Why do some people build up plaque and tartar more quickly than others?
Have you ever wondered why you leave your hygiene appointment with a heavy-duty clean, while your partner breezes through theirs? You're not imagining it — some people genuinely are more prone to plaque and tartar build-up, and it's not always about brushing habits.
What Is Plaque and Tartar?
Plaque is an extremely sticky, colourless to pale yellow deposit of biofilm that regularly forms on your teeth. If you don't remove it through brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar within 24 to 72 hours. Once tartar forms, only a dental professional can remove it.
Key Reasons Some People Build Up More
Saliva composition — Higher calcium and phosphate concentrations in saliva can lead to increased mineralisation of plaque, accelerating tartar formation. This is entirely beyond your control.
Genetics — Research suggests that certain genetic markers may be linked to inheritance patterns, suggesting that if your parents had issues with excessive tartar, you may be more prone to the same condition.
Diet — Common foods that contribute to plaque formation and growth include those containing carbohydrates or simple sugars, such as sucrose and starches, found in soft drinks and candy.
Lifestyle factors — Smoking or using other tobacco products and having dry mouth (xerostomia) increase your likelihood of developing plaque and tartar.
Tooth alignment — Crooked or crowded teeth are harder to clean, giving plaque more places to hide.
Age — Individuals vary greatly in their susceptibility to tartar build-up, and for many, these deposits build up faster with age.
What You Can Do
If you're prone to build-up, don't be discouraged. Some people are more prone to tartar build-up than others — if that's the case for you, consider scheduling professional cleanings every three to four months instead of the standard six.
The bottom line? Plaque and tartar build-up is influenced by factors both within and outside your control. Regular visits to your dental team are the most effective way to stay on top of it.
Due for a clean? Book in with us at Whitland Dental Co — we'll tailor your care to your individual needs.
References
Cleveland Clinic. (2025, August 18). Tartar on teeth (dental calculus): Causes & removal. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/25102-tartar
Cleveland Clinic. (2023, May 10). The sticky truth about dental plaque. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10953-plaque
Edmonton West Dental. (2025, June 28). Why some people get more tartar buildup than others. https://www.edmontonwestdental.com/why-more-tartar-buildup/
Albritton & Ardovino Family Dentistry. (2025, August 15). Why do some people have more plaque?https://aafamilydental.com/blog/why-do-some-people-have-more-plaque/
Crest. (n.d.). Dental plaque and tartar: Causes, prevention, and removal. https://crest.com/en-us/oral-care-tips/tartar-and-plaque/plaque-tartar-causes-prevention-removal
Dental Care of Lombard. (2025, January 10). How is tartar formed? Understanding the sticky truth behind plaque buildup. https://www.dentalcareoflombard.com/how-is-tartar-formed-understanding-the-sticky-truth-behind-plaque-buildup/
