How to Get Rid of Tartar: A Complete Guide

Have you ever run your tongue across your teeth and felt a rough, stubborn patch that just wouldn’t budge? That’s likely tartar, also known as calculus, a hardened form of plaque that clings stubbornly to your teeth and gums. While plaque, the sticky film of bacteria, is a daily nuisance we can usually brush away, tartar requires professional intervention to remove. But why is it so important to get rid of it?

Tartar isn’t just a cosmetic issue, causing unsightly yellow or brown stains. It’s a breeding ground for harmful bacteria that can lead to gingivitis (gum inflammation), periodontitis (gum disease), and even tooth loss. The rough texture of tartar also makes it easier for more plaque to accumulate, creating a vicious cycle of dental problems. Ignoring tartar buildup can lead to significant long-term damage and costly dental procedures. Taking proactive steps to prevent and remove it is essential for maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile.

What are the best ways to combat tartar buildup?

What’s the best way to remove tartar at home?

Unfortunately, you can’t effectively and safely remove tartar (calculus) at home. Tartar is hardened plaque that firmly adheres to your teeth, requiring specialized tools and training to remove without damaging the enamel or gums. Attempting to scrape it off yourself can lead to enamel scratches, gum recession, and potential infections. The most effective way to remove tartar is by visiting a dental professional for a cleaning.

While you can’t remove existing tartar at home, you can take significant steps to *prevent* its formation. Consistent and thorough oral hygiene is key. This involves brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes each time with fluoride toothpaste. Pay close attention to areas where plaque tends to accumulate, such as along the gumline and between teeth. Flossing daily is equally crucial. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from areas your toothbrush can’t reach, preventing them from hardening into tartar. Consider using interdental brushes or water flossers for even more effective cleaning, particularly if you have braces or tightly spaced teeth. In addition to brushing and flossing, using an antiseptic mouthwash can further reduce bacteria in your mouth and slow down plaque buildup. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are essential to remove any tartar that does form and to receive personalized advice on maintaining optimal oral health.

What type of toothbrush is best for preventing tartar buildup?

A powered toothbrush with oscillating-rotating or sonic technology is generally considered best for preventing tartar buildup, as studies show they can be more effective than manual toothbrushes at removing plaque, the precursor to tartar. While a powered toothbrush can be incredibly effective, a manual toothbrush used with proper technique can also be very effective at tartar prevention.

The key to preventing tartar buildup isn’t just the type of toothbrush, but also the brushing technique and frequency. Both powered and manual toothbrushes require diligent use to disrupt and remove plaque before it hardens into tartar. Regardless of your choice, look for a soft-bristled brush to avoid damaging your gums and enamel. Replace your toothbrush (or brush head, for powered brushes) every three months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed.

Beyond the toothbrush itself, consider other factors like the size and shape of the brush head. A smaller brush head can reach more areas of the mouth, particularly the back teeth, which are often missed during brushing. Remember that brushing is only one part of oral hygiene. Flossing daily is crucial for removing plaque and food particles from between teeth, areas where a toothbrush can’t reach. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can also help control plaque and bacteria in the mouth. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are essential for removing existing tartar and maintaining overall oral health.

Are there natural remedies to help dissolve tartar?

While no natural remedies can completely dissolve hardened tartar (calculus) once it has formed, certain practices and substances may help soften it, prevent its formation, and improve overall oral hygiene, indirectly aiding in tartar control. Regular professional dental cleanings are still essential for removing existing tartar.

Although marketed with claims of dissolving tartar, approaches like oil pulling, baking soda, and certain fruit and vegetable consumption primarily work by reducing plaque buildup, the precursor to tartar. Oil pulling, using coconut or sesame oil, may help loosen some plaque through its antibacterial properties and saponification effect. Brushing with baking soda can act as a mild abrasive to remove surface stains and some plaque, but its long-term use can potentially damage tooth enamel. Consuming crisp fruits and vegetables like apples and celery stimulates saliva production, which naturally helps neutralize acids and wash away food debris, thus inhibiting plaque and subsequent tartar formation. Ultimately, the key to preventing tartar buildup relies on diligent oral hygiene. This includes brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash. These habits disrupt the formation of plaque, which is the sticky film that hardens into tartar. Regular professional cleanings by a dentist or dental hygienist are crucial for removing tartar that has already formed, especially in hard-to-reach areas. While some natural remedies can contribute to improved oral hygiene, they cannot replace professional dental care in removing existing tartar.

How often should I get my teeth professionally cleaned to remove tartar?

The general recommendation is to get your teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist or dental hygienist every six months to remove tartar (also known as calculus). However, the ideal frequency can vary based on individual oral health needs and risk factors for gum disease.

While a six-month cleaning schedule works well for most people, some individuals may benefit from more frequent cleanings, such as every three or four months. This is particularly true if you have a history of gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), have difficulty maintaining good oral hygiene at home, are a smoker, have certain medical conditions like diabetes, or have a heavy buildup of plaque and tartar. More frequent cleanings help prevent the progression of gum disease and protect your teeth and gums. Your dentist or hygienist can assess your individual needs and recommend the optimal cleaning schedule for you.

Factors that determine the frequency of professional teeth cleanings include:

• Oral hygiene habits: Consistent and effective brushing and flossing can reduce the need for frequent cleanings.
• Plaque and tartar buildup: Individuals prone to rapid plaque and tartar formation may require more frequent cleanings.
• Gum health: People with gum disease need more frequent cleanings to manage the infection and prevent further damage.
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions can affect oral health and necessitate more frequent cleanings.
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking and diet can impact oral health and influence the need for professional cleanings.

Does mouthwash help prevent tartar formation?

While mouthwash alone cannot remove existing tartar, certain types of mouthwash can help prevent its formation. Specifically, mouthwashes containing fluoride and/or antimicrobial agents like cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) can inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to plaque, the sticky film that hardens into tartar. Using mouthwash should be considered as one piece of a larger oral hygiene approach.

Mouthwash works by rinsing away food particles and reducing the bacterial load in the mouth. The antimicrobial ingredients interfere with the bacteria’s ability to adhere to the teeth and form plaque. Fluoride, another common ingredient, strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and reducing the likelihood of plaque hardening into tartar. However, it’s crucial to remember that mouthwash doesn’t penetrate existing tartar; professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist is the only way to remove hardened deposits. To maximize the preventative benefits of mouthwash, it’s important to choose the right kind and use it correctly. Look for mouthwashes specifically formulated to fight plaque and tartar, and always use them after brushing and flossing. Swish the mouthwash thoroughly for the recommended time (usually 30-60 seconds) as indicated on the product label. Also, remember that mouthwash should be used as a complement to, not a replacement for, brushing and flossing. A complete oral hygiene routine including regular dental check-ups is key to preventing tartar buildup and maintaining healthy teeth and gums.