How Do You Get Rid of Tartar?
Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hard deposit that forms on the teeth due to the mineralization of dental plaque. Tartar buildup can lead to several dental problems, such as gum disease, bad breath, and tooth decay. If left untreated, tartar buildup can cause irreversible damage to your teeth and gums, leading to tooth loss.
Fortunately, there are several ways to get rid of tartar and prevent its buildup. In this article, we will discuss some effective methods to remove tartar and maintain healthy teeth and gums.
1. Regular brushing and flossing
The most effective way to prevent tartar buildup is by practicing good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day, using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush your teeth in a circular motion and pay extra attention to the areas where tartar tends to build up, such as the back of your teeth and along the gum line.
Floss your teeth daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and gums. This will help prevent tartar buildup in hard-to-reach areas.
2. Use a tartar control toothpaste
Tartar control toothpaste contains special ingredients that help prevent the formation of tartar on your teeth. These toothpastes are specifically designed to target the areas where tartar tends to accumulate, such as the gum line and the spaces between your teeth.
When selecting a tartar control toothpaste, look for one that contains fluoride, as this will help strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay.
3. Visit your dentist regularly
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Your dentist can remove any tartar buildup that has formed on your teeth and provide recommendations on how to prevent its formation in the future.
During a dental cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove tartar from your teeth. This process is known as scaling, and it involves scraping the tartar from your teeth using a dental instrument called a scaler.
4. Consider professional dental cleaning
If you have a significant amount of tartar buildup on your teeth, you may require professional dental cleaning. This process is also known as a deep cleaning or scaling and root planing.
During this procedure, your dentist or dental hygienist will use special tools to remove tartar from above and below the gum line. They will also smooth out rough spots on your teeth to prevent further tartar buildup.
5. Use natural remedies
There are several natural remedies that you can use to remove tartar buildup on your teeth. These remedies are generally safe and easy to use. Here are a few examples:
- Baking soda: Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with a few drops of water to create a paste. Apply the paste to your teeth and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off.
- Vinegar: Soak your toothbrush in vinegar for a few minutes before brushing your teeth with it. Vinegar contains acetic acid, which can help dissolve tartar on your teeth.
- Oil pulling: Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil or sesame oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes before spitting it out. This process can help remove bacteria and plaque from your teeth.
While these natural remedies can be effective in removing tartar, it's important to remember that they should not replace regular dental checkups and cleanings.
In conclusion, tartar buildup can lead to several dental problems, and it's essential to remove it to maintain healthy teeth and gums. By practicing good oral hygiene, using tartar control toothpaste, visiting your dentist regularly, considering professional dental cleaning, and using natural remedies, you can effectively remove tartar and prevent its buildup.