It’s natural to desire a clean and dazzling smile, but the buildup of tartar on your teeth can be a real hindrance. Tartar, also known as dental calculus, forms when plaque hardens due to mineral deposits from your saliva. While a dentist can effectively remove tartar, there are some steps you can take on your own to tackle this issue at home. So, let’s explore some effective ways to remove tartar from teeth without a dentist’s intervention.
Good Oral Hygiene is Key
A good oral hygiene routine is crucial for preventing tartar buildup. Ensure that you brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day using a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste. Be systematic and gentle when brushing, making sure to cover all areas of your mouth, including the front and back of teeth, along with your tongue and gums.
Equally important is flossing regularly. Dental floss helps remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and along the gumline, areas where tartar often accumulates. Gently glide the floss along the curves of your teeth, ensuring you reach below the gumline.
Utilize Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide are effective ingredients you can use to combat tartar buildup at home. Baking soda acts as a natural abrasive, while hydrogen peroxide possesses antimicrobial properties. To create a toothpaste-like mixture, combine one tablespoon of baking soda with a few drops of hydrogen peroxide.
After brushing your teeth with this mixture for around two minutes, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. However, it’s essential to exercise caution with this method, as excessive use of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide can potentially damage tooth enamel.
Try Oil Pulling
An ancient practice, oil pulling can help reduce tartar and maintain oral hygiene. This technique involves swishing oil in your mouth for about 15-20 minutes to remove bacteria and plaque. Coconut oil is a popular choice due to its antimicrobial properties.
To oil pull, take a tablespoon of coconut oil, swish it around your mouth with gentle pressure, and pull it through your teeth. Spit the oil into a trash can or tissue afterward, as discarding it in the sink may lead to clogged drains. Remember to brush your teeth afterward to remove any remaining oil.
Consider Natural Antiseptic Mouthwash
While not a direct method to remove tartar, using a natural antiseptic mouthwash can aid in maintaining oral health and preventing tartar formation. Look for a mouthwash containing natural ingredients like tea tree oil, peppermint oil, or cinnamon oil, as they possess antimicrobial properties and can help control plaque buildup.
After brushing and flossing, rinse your mouth with the mouthwash for about 30 seconds, making sure to swirl it around all areas to kill bacteria that may contribute to tartar formation.
Make Regular Dental Cleanings a Priority
Even with excellent oral hygiene practices at home, professional dental cleanings are essential to keep tartar at bay. While these methods will help in reducing tartar buildup, visiting your dentist for a thorough cleaning every six months is strongly advised.
A dental professional can perform scaling and root planing, scraping off tartar from your teeth and beneath your gumline, and smoothing the tooth surfaces to discourage further plaque and tartar formation. Regular dental check-ups also allow your dentist to detect and treat potential oral health issues before they become major problems.
By adopting a consistent oral hygiene routine, utilizing natural remedies and mouthwashes, and prioritizing dental cleanings, you can successfully remove tartar from your teeth without solely relying on a dentist’s intervention. Remember, prevention is key in maintaining optimal oral health and achieving that brilliant smile you desire!