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Tartar is a hardened mineral deposit that forms when dental plaque is not cleaned properly. The only way to remove tartar is through professional dental cleaning, which is why it’s best to prevent its formation from the start. To avoid tartar, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential. This includes promptly removing plaque by brushing regularly, flossing, and scheduling routine dental cleanings. With proper preventive measures, your teeth can remain healthy and free of tartar for years to come.
Steps
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Brushing is a crucial step in removing plaque from your teeth, which also helps prevent tartar. You should brush at least twice daily to keep plaque and tartar at bay.
- Typically, it’s recommended to brush in the morning after waking up and at night before bed. However, you can choose a brushing schedule that works for you and stick to it consistently.
Floss daily. Tartar can form between teeth if food particles are not removed. By flossing once a day, you can eliminate substances that contribute to plaque and tartar buildup.
- When flossing, gently guide the floss between each tooth. Move it back and forth to remove debris, then use a sawing motion to clean the sides of the teeth.
- Sugary and starchy residues between teeth are particularly prone to forming plaque and tartar. If you consume such foods, consider flossing immediately afterward.
Use a plaque-fighting mouthwash. Certain mouthwashes are formulated to combat plaque. These products help loosen plaque, making brushing and flossing more effective. Using such a mouthwash daily, in combination with brushing and flossing, can enhance oral health and prevent tartar formation.
- Rinse with mouthwash immediately after brushing and flossing to remove any remaining debris.
- Check the label to ensure the mouthwash contains antibacterial ingredients designed to fight plaque. High-quality mouthwashes often carry endorsements from dental organizations, such as the American Dental Association.
Avoid foods that harm your teeth. To prevent plaque buildup, steer clear of foods that encourage plaque growth, such as sugary and starchy items like candy, soda, and bread.
- If you do consume these foods, brush your teeth immediately afterward. If a toothbrush and toothpaste are unavailable, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to wash away food particles.
Effectively Remove Plaque
Use the right toothbrush. To effectively remove plaque and prevent tartar, choose a toothbrush that works well for you. Opt for a soft-bristled brush that cleans plaque without damaging gums or enamel.
- Select a brush with rounded bristle tips. These are designed to protect enamel and gums from damage.
Use tartar-control toothpaste. While there are many toothpaste options available, choose one labeled for tartar control. These toothpastes contain mild abrasives that help remove plaque from the tooth surface.
- If you have sensitive teeth, ensure the tartar-control toothpaste is specifically formulated for sensitivity.
Brush at a 45° angle with short strokes. To remove plaque beneath the gumline, brush at the correct angle. Holding your brush at a 45° angle allows the bristles to reach below the gumline.
- Use gentle, circular motions with short strokes. This is the most effective way to clean away plaque and food particles.
Brush every tooth thoroughly. Take the time to clean each tooth individually. If you brush every tooth completely, it should take about 2 minutes.
- Cleaning all surfaces of your teeth is equally important. Spend time brushing the inner, outer, and chewing surfaces.
Professional Teeth Cleaning
Schedule regular dental cleanings. To prevent tartar buildup, visit your dentist for routine cleanings. Plan ahead to ensure you stick to your schedule.
- While many dental professionals recommend cleanings twice a year, this can vary. Consult your dentist to determine how often you should have professional cleanings based on your risk factors or oral health needs.
Contact your dental clinic if you experience oral issues. Pain or irritation in your mouth could indicate a problem that requires treatment. Reach out to your dentist to schedule an appointment for examination and care.
Undergo a dental examination. Initially, a dental hygienist will inspect and evaluate your teeth. They will check for signs of plaque and tartar buildup across your entire mouth.
- The hygienist will also look for indicators of other oral health issues, such as gingivitis.
Get a professional dental cleaning. During your dental visit, the hygienist will manually remove plaque and tartar using specialized tools. They will then polish your teeth with a gritty toothpaste to eliminate any remaining residue.
- The gritty toothpaste used in clinics leaves your teeth shiny but should only be used twice a year, as frequent use can damage enamel.
Opt for ultrasonic cleaning. If significant plaque and tartar are present, your teeth may require ultrasonic cleaning. This method uses vibrations and water to break down and remove large tartar deposits.
