Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hardened form of plaque that builds up on teeth and along the gum line. Once plaque mineralizes into tartar, it cannot be removed by regular brushing alone and requires professional intervention. However, there are several natural strategies you can adopt to prevent tartar from forming in the first place and to slow its accumulation between dental visits.
Understanding Tartar and Why Prevention Matters
Tartar forms when the sticky film of bacteria known as plaque is not adequately removed through daily brushing and flossing. Within 24 to 72 hours, plaque begins to harden as minerals from saliva deposit onto its surface, transforming it into tartar. Unlike plaque, which is soft and can be brushed away, tartar bonds firmly to the tooth surface and can only be removed with professional dental instruments.
Left untreated, tartar provides a rough surface where more plaque accumulates, creating a vicious cycle. Tartar buildup contributes to gum inflammation (gingivitis), which can progress to periodontitis, a serious form of gum disease that damages the supporting structures of the teeth. Tartar also creates cosmetic concerns, as it tends to absorb stains and can make teeth appear yellow or brown. Prevention through diligent oral care is far easier and more effective than dealing with the consequences of tartar buildup.
Proper Brushing Technique and Baking Soda
The most important step in preventing tartar is thorough, consistent brushing. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush for at least two minutes, twice daily. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line and use short, gentle strokes to clean all surfaces of each tooth. Pay special attention to the areas behind the lower front teeth and the outer surfaces of the upper back teeth, where tartar tends to accumulate most readily.
Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help remove plaque before it hardens into tartar. You can occasionally sprinkle a small amount of baking soda onto your toothpaste before brushing. Baking soda also creates an alkaline environment in the mouth that inhibits bacterial growth. However, it should be used in moderation, as excessive use can be too abrasive for tooth enamel. Once or twice a week is generally sufficient to see benefits without risking enamel damage.
Oil Pulling and Vitamin C Rich Foods
Oil pulling is an ancient practice that involves swishing a tablespoon of oil, typically coconut or sesame oil, in the mouth for 15 to 20 minutes before spitting it out. Proponents believe that this practice helps reduce bacteria in the mouth, decrease plaque formation, and promote healthier gums. While scientific evidence on oil pulling is still limited, many people find it to be a helpful complement to their regular oral hygiene routine.
Foods rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli, support gum health by strengthening blood vessels and reducing inflammation. A diet that includes adequate vitamin C can help your gums resist the bacterial infections associated with plaque and tartar buildup. Crunchy fruits and vegetables also help clean teeth naturally by stimulating saliva production and scrubbing tooth surfaces as you chew.
Additional Natural Approaches
Drinking green tea has been associated with improved oral health due to its natural antibacterial properties. The catechins in green tea may help reduce bacteria in the mouth and lower the acidity of saliva, creating an environment less conducive to plaque formation. Drinking one to two cups of unsweetened green tea daily can be a beneficial addition to your oral health routine.
Chewing sugar-free gum after meals stimulates saliva flow, which helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids produced by bacteria. Look for gum sweetened with xylitol, a natural sweetener that has been shown to inhibit the growth of plaque-causing bacteria. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day also helps rinse away bacteria and food debris that contribute to plaque buildup.
When Professional Cleaning Is Needed
It is important to understand that while natural methods are excellent for prevention, they cannot remove tartar that has already formed. Once plaque has hardened into calculus, only a dental professional can safely and effectively remove it using specialized scaling instruments or ultrasonic devices. Attempting to scrape tartar off your teeth at home can damage your enamel and injure your gums.
Regular professional cleanings at Levantine Dental Clinic every six months are essential for removing tartar buildup and maintaining optimal oral health. During your cleaning, our hygienists use precision instruments to remove tartar from all surfaces of your teeth, including below the gum line where it is most harmful. Combining professional care with diligent at-home natural prevention strategies gives you the best chance of keeping tartar at bay and preserving a healthy, beautiful smile. Book your cleaning appointment with us today.