Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hardened form of plaque that accumulates on your teeth over time. It’s crucial to remove tartar to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent dental issues like cavities and gum disease. While professional dental cleanings are the most effective way to remove tartar, there are several methods you can try at home to help manage it. This blog will guide you through the steps and precautions about how to remove tartar at home safely.
Understanding Tartar
Before diving into the removal methods, it’s essential to understand what tartar is and how it forms. Tartar forms when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, combines with minerals in your saliva and hardens on your teeth. This usually happens when plaque is not thoroughly removed through regular brushing and flossing.
Why Removing Tartar is Important
Removing tartar is crucial because it prevents cavities, maintains gum health, improves breath, and enhances the appearance of your teeth. Tartar can harbor bacteria that produce acids, which erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities. It can also irritate and inflame the gums, leading to gingivitis and periodontitis. Additionally, tartar and plaque can contribute to bad breath by harboring odor-causing bacteria, and removing tartar can prevent discoloration and keep your teeth looking clean and bright.
Home Remedies to Remove Tartar
While professional cleanings are the best way to remove tartar, the following home remedies can help reduce its buildup.
Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help scrub away plaque and tartar. Hydrogen peroxide has antibacterial properties that aid in oral hygiene. To use this method, mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a few drops of hydrogen peroxide to form a paste. Apply the paste to your toothbrush and brush your teeth as usual for 2-3 minutes. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. This mixture helps in breaking down the tartar and removing it from the surface of your teeth.
White Vinegar
White vinegar can help reduce tartar buildup due to its acidic nature, which dissolves mineral deposits. To use this remedy, mix two tablespoons of white vinegar with a cup of warm water and add a pinch of salt. Rinse your mouth with this solution once a day. The acidity of the vinegar helps in softening the tartar, making it easier to remove through brushing and flossing.
Orange Peels
The vitamin C in orange peels can help fight bacteria in your mouth, reducing plaque and tartar. Simply rub the inside of an orange peel directly on your teeth and gums. Let the juice sit on your teeth for a few minutes before rinsing with water. The natural acids in the peel help in breaking down the tartar, and the vitamin C boosts your gum health.
Flossing
Flossing is essential for removing plaque and tartar from between your teeth and along the gum line. Use a piece of dental floss about 18 inches long. Gently slide the floss between your teeth, curving it around each tooth and moving it up and down to remove plaque. Floss at least once a day, preferably before bedtime. Regular flossing helps in preventing the buildup of tartar in areas where your toothbrush cannot reach.
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient practice that involves swishing oil in your mouth to remove bacteria and promote oral health. Take a tablespoon of coconut oil or sesame oil and swish it around your mouth for 10-15 minutes, being careful not to swallow it. Spit the oil into a trash can and rinse your mouth with water, then brush your teeth as usual. This method helps in removing toxins and bacteria from your mouth, thereby reducing the formation of plaque and tartar.
Diet and Hydration
A balanced diet and proper hydration can also help reduce tartar buildup. Eating crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots can help clean your teeth. These foods act as natural scrubbers, removing plaque and tartar as you chew. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and bacteria. It’s also important to avoid sugary and starchy foods that contribute to plaque formation. Staying hydrated ensures that your mouth produces enough saliva, which naturally cleanses your teeth and gums.
Precautions and Tips
While these home remedies can help manage tartar, it’s essential to take some precautions to avoid damaging your teeth and gums. When using abrasive substances like baking soda, be gentle to avoid damaging your enamel. Overbrushing or using excessive force can lead to enamel erosion and gum recession. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, and replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Avoid using DIY dental tools or sharp objects to scrape tartar off your teeth, as this can damage your enamel and gums, leading to more significant dental issues.
Final Thoughts To Take Care Of Dental Health
Removing tartar at home requires consistent oral hygiene practices and the use of effective home remedies. While these methods can help reduce tartar buildup, they are not a substitute for professional dental care. By combining these home remedies with regular dental visits, you can maintain a healthy, bright smile and prevent dental issues. Remember, the key to managing tartar is prevention through good oral hygiene habits.