How to Remove Tartar from Teeth Without a Dentist: A Comprehensive Guide
Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hardened form of plaque that forms on the teeth when plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing. It can develop both above and below the gum line and may lead to various oral health problems such as gum disease, cavities, and bad breath. While the most effective way to remove tartar is through a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist, many people seek to reduce tartar buildup at home as a preventive measure. This article will explore several methods for removing tartar from teeth without the need for a dentist, offering both traditional and modern solutions.
What is Tartar and How Does It Form?
Before discussing the removal techniques, it is essential to understand what tartar is and how it develops. Tartar is a thick, yellowish or brownish deposit that forms on the teeth as plaque—a sticky, colorless film of bacteria—hardens over time. Plaque begins to form immediately after brushing, and if not removed by regular brushing and flossing, it begins to calcify within 24 to 72 hours, turning into tartar.
The risk of tartar buildup increases for people who:
- Do not brush their teeth thoroughly or frequently enough
- Skip flossing regularly
- Have a dry mouth or reduced saliva production
- Consume sugary or starchy foods that promote plaque growth
- Smoke or chew tobacco
Once tartar forms, it can only be removed by a professional cleaning since it is tightly bonded to the surface of the teeth. However, there are some steps you can take at home to manage and reduce tartar buildup.
Home Remedies and Methods to Remove Tartar
While none of the following methods can fully replace professional dental care, they can help reduce tartar buildup and maintain overall oral hygiene. Below are several methods that can aid in tartar removal at home:
1. Brushing with Baking Soda
Baking soda is a common home remedy for cleaning teeth. Its mildly abrasive nature helps scrub away tartar buildup without damaging the enamel. It is not a substitute for fluoride toothpaste, but it can be used occasionally to assist in the removal of plaque and tartar.
How to Use:
- Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste.
- Use a toothbrush to apply the paste to your teeth.
- Gently brush for about two minutes, ensuring you reach all surfaces.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
Baking soda can help loosen plaque and tartar on the surface of your teeth, making it easier to remove. However, it should not be used excessively as its abrasiveness may wear down the enamel over time if used too frequently.
2. Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around in the mouth to remove bacteria, improve oral hygiene, and prevent tartar buildup. Coconut oil, in particular, is commonly used due to its antimicrobial properties. While research on oil pulling is still limited, many people report positive effects on their oral health, including reduced plaque buildup and fresher breath.
How to Use:
- Take about one tablespoon of coconut oil.
- Swish it around your mouth for 10-15 minutes, ensuring it reaches all areas, especially the back of the teeth.
- Spit out the oil and rinse your mouth with water.
- Brush your teeth as usual.
Oil pulling may help to reduce plaque formation, thus preventing the hardening of tartar. It is important to note that oil pulling should not replace brushing and flossing, but it can complement a good oral hygiene routine.
3. Using White Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar
Vinegar is acidic and can help in dissolving the minerals that make tartar harden. While vinegar is not a direct tartar remover, it can help loosen plaque and tartar buildup over time. Apple cider vinegar (ACV), with its mild acidity and additional beneficial enzymes, is often the preferred choice.
How to Use:
- Mix one part vinegar with two parts water (for example, one tablespoon of vinegar with two tablespoons of water).
- Swish the solution in your mouth for about 1-2 minutes.
- Spit it out and rinse thoroughly with water.
Though vinegar can help in cleaning the teeth, it should be used sparingly because of its acidic nature, which can erode enamel if used excessively. Always dilute the vinegar with water to reduce its acidity.
4. Flossing Regularly
Flossing is one of the most effective ways to prevent tartar buildup. It removes plaque from between the teeth and along the gum line, areas where a toothbrush might not reach. Flossing can help prevent plaque from hardening into tartar.
How to Floss:
- Take a piece of dental floss about 18 inches long.
- Gently slide it between your teeth, curving it into a “C” shape around the sides of each tooth.
- Move the floss up and down, making sure to clean the surfaces of both teeth.
- Use a fresh section of floss for each gap between your teeth.
By flossing daily, you can significantly reduce the accumulation of plaque that leads to tartar formation.
5. Using Tartar-Control Toothpaste
Toothpastes formulated with tartar control ingredients, such as pyrophosphates or zinc citrate, can help in reducing tartar buildup. These toothpastes often contain active ingredients that prevent the minerals in plaque from hardening, which can help slow the process of tartar formation.
How to Use:
- Use a tartar-control toothpaste in place of your regular toothpaste.
- Brush thoroughly for at least two minutes, focusing on all surfaces of your teeth.
While tartar-control toothpaste may help slow the formation of tartar, it is important to note that it will not remove existing tartar. Only a dentist or hygienist can remove hardened tartar through professional cleaning.
6. Eating Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables
Crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples, carrots, and celery, can help clean teeth naturally. The texture of these foods helps remove plaque as you chew, reducing the likelihood of tartar buildup. Additionally, the high water content in these foods can help stimulate saliva production, which acts as a natural defense against plaque formation.
How to Use:
- Incorporate more crunchy fruits and vegetables into your diet.
- Try to eat them raw, as cooking may reduce their effectiveness at scrubbing your teeth.
While this method is not a quick fix for existing tartar, it can serve as an excellent preventive measure for future buildup.
The Importance of Professional Cleanings
Although home remedies can help control plaque and tartar to some extent, it is important to emphasize that regular professional cleanings by a dentist or dental hygienist are crucial for optimal oral health. A dental professional uses specialized tools, such as scalers and ultrasonic devices, to remove tartar from hard-to-reach areas, including below the gumline, where tartar can cause significant harm.
In addition to removing tartar, dental cleanings also provide an opportunity to detect early signs of gum disease, cavities, and other oral health issues. Most dental professionals recommend a cleaning every six months, although some individuals with higher risk factors for tartar buildup may need more frequent visits.
Preventing Tartar Buildup
Prevention is always the best strategy when it comes to dental health. To minimize tartar buildup, follow these tips:
- Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth.
- Use mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Avoid sugary snacks and drinks that promote plaque growth.
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups.
- Stay hydrated to ensure sufficient saliva production.
Conclusion
Removing tartar from teeth at home can help reduce plaque buildup and maintain a healthier smile. While home remedies like baking soda, oil pulling, and vinegar may aid in loosening plaque and preventing tartar formation, they are not substitutes for professional dental care. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings are the best way to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent the harmful effects of tartar buildup.
By taking steps to control tartar and incorporating effective oral hygiene practices into your routine, you can maintain a healthy, bright smile and avoid the complications associated with tartar and plaque buildup. Always remember, if you notice significant tartar buildup or signs of gum disease, it’s important to seek professional care to ensure the long-term health of your teeth and gums.