Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hard, yellowish-brown deposit that builds up on your teeth. It's essentially hardened plaque, and it's a major contributor to gum disease and tooth decay. While brushing and flossing diligently are crucial for preventing tartar buildup, sometimes professional intervention is necessary. This guide explores how to remove tartar from teeth, covering both at-home preventative measures and professional cleaning options.
Understanding Tartar Buildup
Before diving into removal methods, it's vital to understand why tartar forms. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, constantly forms on your teeth. If not removed through brushing and flossing, plaque mineralizes over time, hardening into tartar. This process is accelerated by factors such as:
- Poor oral hygiene: Inconsistent brushing and flossing are the primary culprits.
- Diet: A diet high in sugary and starchy foods feeds bacteria, accelerating plaque formation.
- Dry mouth: Saliva helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles. Dry mouth increases tartar buildup.
- Smoking: Smoking irritates gums and increases plaque buildup.
- Certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions can impact saliva production and increase susceptibility to tartar.
Preventing Tartar Buildup: Your First Line of Defense
The best way to deal with tartar is to prevent it from forming in the first place. Here's how:
1. Brush Regularly and Correctly
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, for two minutes each time, using fluoride toothpaste. Focus on the gum line and all tooth surfaces. Consider using an electric toothbrush for more effective plaque removal.
2. Floss Daily
Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, areas your toothbrush can't reach. This is crucial in preventing tartar formation in hard-to-clean areas.
3. Rinse with Mouthwash
An antimicrobial mouthwash can help kill bacteria and reduce plaque buildup. Choose a mouthwash recommended by your dentist.
4. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Limit sugary and starchy foods and drinks. A balanced diet supports overall oral health.
5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are essential. Your dentist can remove tartar buildup before it becomes a serious problem.
Removing Tartar: Professional Cleaning is Key
While you can prevent some tartar buildup at home, removing existing tartar requires professional dental cleaning. At-home remedies promising tartar removal are often ineffective and can even damage your enamel.
Professional cleaning typically involves:
- Scaling: Using specialized tools to scrape away tartar from above and below the gum line.
- Root planing: Smoothing the tooth roots to remove bacteria and prevent further tartar accumulation.
- Polishing: Polishing the teeth to remove surface stains and make them smoother, hindering future plaque buildup.
What to Expect During a Professional Cleaning
A professional cleaning is usually painless, though you might experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity afterward. Your dentist will likely recommend follow-up appointments to monitor your oral health and prevent future tartar buildup. They can also provide personalized advice on improving your oral hygiene routine.
Conclusion: Prevention and Professional Care
Tartar removal necessitates a two-pronged approach: preventing buildup through diligent home care and seeking regular professional cleanings. By prioritizing oral hygiene and scheduling routine dental appointments, you can maintain healthy teeth and gums, free from the harmful effects of tartar. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to your dental health.
