Tartar is basically plaque that has been left untreated and worsened into a harder surface on the teeth that only dentists can remove. Plaque is a thick film on teeth comprised of saliva and trapped food particles that build up on the gum line. If plaque is not removed every day by gentle brushing, flossing and rinsing with powerful LISTERINE antiseptic mouthwash, it can harden into tartar. The acid from plaque can attack teeth soon after meals; if not cleaned away it can break through enamel and lead to a cavity. Plaque also harms gums and can lead to red, swollen and bleeding gums when brushed, or even lead to receding gums. Tartar is hard and crusty and porous. It is yellow or brownish in color and appears on the gum line. Tartar is plaque that was not removed and has hardened from mineral deposits in saliva. Tartar buildup causes cavities, tooth decay and tooth loss as well as gum disease. It continues to grow and calcify if not removed. Tartar can only be removed from your teeth by dentists and their professional tools. Brushing, flossing, rinsing with LISTERINE mouthwash and using tartar-control toothpaste can prevent this