Tartar facts for kids

Tartar is a word that can mean a few different things. It might refer to a group of people, a type of dental problem, a tasty sauce, or even a special ingredient used in baking! Let's explore what each of these means.

The Tatars

The Tatars are an ethnic group who mostly live in Russia. Many Tatars live in a part of Russia called Tatarstan. They have a rich history and culture. Their language is called Tatar, and it is related to Turkish.

History of the Tatars

The Tatars have a long history. Their ancestors were part of the large Mongol Empire that existed many centuries ago. Over time, they settled in different areas and developed their own unique traditions. Today, they are an important part of Russia's diverse population.

Tartar (Dental)

When you hear about "tartar" at the dentist, it means something completely different! This kind of tartar is also known as dental calculus. It's a hard, yellowish buildup that forms on your teeth.

How Dental Tartar Forms

Dental tartar forms when plaque hardens on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly grows on your teeth. If you don't brush and floss regularly, plaque can mix with minerals in your saliva and turn into hard tartar.

Why Dental Tartar is a Problem

Tartar can make your teeth look discolored. More importantly, it can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Once tartar forms, you can't remove it with just brushing. A dentist or dental hygienist needs to remove it using special tools. This is why it's so important to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily!

Tartar Sauce

Tartar sauce is a popular condiment often served with seafood. It's a creamy, tangy sauce that adds a lot of flavor to dishes like fish and chips or fried shrimp.

What's in Tartar Sauce?

Tartar sauce is usually made with mayonnaise as its base. Other common ingredients include chopped pickles or gherkins, capers, onions, and fresh herbs like parsley or dill. Sometimes, a little lemon juice or vinegar is added for extra tanginess.

Tartaric Acid Salts

In chemistry and cooking, "tartar" can also refer to salts of tartaric acid. Tartaric acid is a natural acid found in many fruits, especially grapes.

Cream of Tartar

The most common salt of tartaric acid you might find is cream of tartar. This is a white powder often used in baking.

How Cream of Tartar is Used

• Stabilizing egg whites: It helps egg whites hold their shape when whipped, making meringues and soufflés more stable.
• Leavening agent: It's often combined with baking soda to create baking powder, which helps baked goods rise.
• Preventing sugar crystallization: It can stop sugar from forming crystals in candies and frosting.