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Dental Health

4 Tips For Easily Removing and Preventing Tartar Buildup

Dodge gum disease this way.

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We all know the importance of brushing, flossing, and rinsing our teeth with mouthwash twice a day, so when we notice any build up of tartar on our teeth it can be quite worrying. If you’re concerned and want to know the best way to get rid of tartar on your teeth without having to take a trip to the dentist, we’ve put together some helpful tips and advice to remove tartar buildup on teeth — leaving them feeling great and looking sparkling!

What is tartar?

No matter how well you take care of your teeth, we all have lots of bacteria in our mouths. Once this bacteria mixes with our food and the proteins in our food, it can form into what we know as plaque. Plaque is sticky, and it easily coats your teeth. 

Plaque carries bacteria which can damage our tooth enamel and lead to cavities. Luckily, if you regularly remove the plaque, you can avoid this happening. However, if this plaque is not removed, it can develop and harden into tartar. Also known as calculus, it can form above and below the gum line and can lead to gum disease and receding gums. 

How to Remove Tartar

If you’ve already got a buildup of tartar on your teeth, you should visit your dentist to get it removed professionally with their tools. Once the plaque has hardened, it’s very hard to remove, which is why it’s best to see a professional. 

Can you remove tartar at home?

If you’re not keen on the dentists, it can be tempting to try and remove the tartar yourself at home with home remedies. From white vinegar to baking soda, there are a number of home remedies that people may suggest, but the best option is to see a professional dentist or hygienist. 

Not only do they train for years to learn how to clean the teeth safely and properly, they also have all the correct tools and devices to clean off the tartar without damaging the teeth further. 

How to Prevent Tartar Buildup

On the plus side, if you find the plaque has not yet hardened, you should try brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash more regularly in order to get rid of plaque. Here are some methods to help you avoid build-up in the future:

  • Brush twice per day for two minutes
  • Choose a toothpaste with fluoride 
  • Floss once per day
  • Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash after washing

This article originally appeared on our sister site, Yours.

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