What is Tartar and How to Remove It

Do you know that feeling when you run your tongue over your teeth, and they feel rough? That's likely tartar. While it might not seem like a big deal, this hardened buildup can harm your oral health.

By understanding tartar and its formation, you can take proactive steps to prevent its buildup and keep your smile healthy for years to come. Let’s discuss tartar more and what you can do to prevent and remove it.

What is Tartar?

Tartar, also called dental calculus, is a hardened yellowish substance that accumulates on teeth above and below the gum line. It originates from plaque, a sticky bacterial film that solidifies on teeth.

If you don't brush and floss diligently, plaque can harden over time. It then becomes a calcified mixture of bacteria, food particles, and saliva, which we know as tartar.

Regular brushing and flossing are ineffective for removal, making it even more challenging to address. Its rough, porous surface readily absorbs stains, which can lead to noticeable tooth discoloration.

Why Should Tartar be Removed?

Tartar isn't just an aesthetic issue. It's a breeding ground for bacteria that can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis). When tartar builds up, it can eventually weaken the foundation of your teeth.

If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. Bacteria hiding within the tartar produce acids that can eat away at the enamel, the protective outer layer of teeth, leading to tooth decay.

Tartar bacteria can also release unpleasant odors and create an unwanted aroma that can affect your confidence and social interactions.

How Can You Remove Tartar?

Once tartar has formed, it clings tightly to your teeth, creating a rough surface that attracts even more bacteria. It becomes too compacted to remove with a toothbrush and string of floss.

The only way to remove it is by getting a professional cleaning done by your dentist. During a professional cleaning, they’ll use specialized instruments to gently but effectively remove tartar from your teeth.

This process helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay. It also leaves your teeth feeling smooth and refreshed.

How Often Should You Get a Professional Dental Cleaning?

The general recommendation is to schedule a professional cleaning every six months. This allows your dentist or hygienist to remove any tartar that has formed.

Depending on your individual needs and risk factors, your dentist might recommend more frequent cleanings. If you have a history of gum disease, diabetes, or other health conditions that affect your oral health, you might benefit from a dental cleaning every three or four months.

Preventative Strategies for Tartar Buildup

The good news is that tartar buildup is largely preventable. By brushing and flossing regularly, you can disrupt the plaque before it has a chance to solidify.

The key is to ensure that you brush and floss consistently using the right technique. Brush and floss at least twice a day, paying attention to all surfaces of your teeth. Make sure to reach those tight spaces between teeth for a thorough clean.

Here are some other ways to prevent tartar buildup:

• Use an electric toothbrush ⁠— Electric toothbrushes can remove plaque more thoroughly than manual brushing, especially if you find it challenging to maintain consistent pressure or reach all areas of your mouth.
• Use a mouthwash ⁠— An antimicrobial mouthwash can provide an extra layer of defense against plaque and tartar buildup.
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks ⁠— Sugar fuels bacteria to thrive and produce plaque. Try to opt for healthier options like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products to help make your enamel more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria.
• Stay hydrated ⁠— Water washes away food particles and bacteria and stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralize acids in your mouth.
• Use tartar-controlling products — Look for toothpaste and mouthwash labeled "tartar control." These products often contain special ingredients that help prevent plaque from hardening into tartar.
• Stop tobacco use ⁠— Tobacco increases your risk of tartar buildup and contributes to gum disease and other serious oral health problems.
• See a dentist regularly ⁠— Even with the best at-home care, professional cleanings are still essential. Your dentist or hygienist has specialized tools that can remove tartar buildup that you can't reach on your own.

These proactive strategies can keep tartar at bay and help maintain a healthy smile. We also encourage you to ask your dentist about any questions or concerns you have about tartar.

By prioritizing professional care and combining it with a consistent at-home routine, you can keep tartar at bay and enjoy a lifetime of healthy, happy teeth.