How to remove tartar from teeth without dentist intervention
Whilst we would always recommend it is best to consult a dentist or a dental hygienist for professional cleaning and removal of tartar, there are a few steps you can take at home to help reduce tartar buildup on your teeth. It is important to note that these methods are not a substitute for professional dental care and regular check-ups.
What is tartar?
Tartar (also known as calculus) is hard calcified deposits that are formed by bacteria from proteins and food residues, to create a sticky dental plaque. This coats your teeth and gums. When plaque is left untreated, it hardens and discolours. This then forms tartar.
7 easy tips on how to remove tartar from teeth without dentist intervention
- Brush your teeth – Brush your teeth at least twice a day, for two minutes a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste containing fluoride. Use gentle, circular motions and make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including along your gums.
- Floss daily -Flossing helps remove plaque and debris from between your teeth and near your gums. This can help prevent tartar formation. Be sure to use proper flossing technique and reach down to the gumline. There are also handy interdental brushes, such as TePe brushes available to clean between the teeth and near your gums.
- Use a dental mouthwash -Rinse your mouth with a dental mouthwash after brushing and flossing. This can help kill bacteria and reduce plaque buildup. Brands such as Corsodyl mouthwashes can help keep gums healthy. Some of these mouthwashes can also provide cavity protection with fluoride.
- If possible use an electric toothbrush with an oscillating motion – Electric toothbrushes such as the ones made by Oral B and Philips can provide more effective cleaning, especially in hard-to-reach areas. They can help remove plaque and tartar more efficiently than manual brushing.
- Chew sugar-free gum – Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can stimulate saliva production. This can help neutralise acids and wash away food particles. This reduces the risk of tartar formation on your teeth.
- Change your diet – Reduce your intake of sugary drinks and sugary and starchy foods, as they can contribute to tartar buildup. Instead, adopt a balanced diet rich in natural foods (i.e., non-processed foods) such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
- Explore natural remedies – Some natural remedies, like rinsing with a saltine solution, may help reduce bacteria in the mouth. However, the evidence for their effectiveness in tartar removal is limited.
Remember, these steps can only help prevent tartar buildup and are not a substitute for professional dental care. Unlike plaque which can be removed at home with a good oral hygiene routine, tartar is much more difficult to remove from your teeth.
It’s essential to schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal oral health.
Is that really how to remove tartar from teeth without a dentist’s intervention?
If you want to get the best advice on how to remove tartar from teeth without dentist intervention, book a dental hygienist appointment. If you are worried about the cost of dental treatment, dental hygiene is usually less expensive. If you don’t want to see a dentist or register with a dental practice, there are many good practices of one-off direct access dental hygienist appointments.
What does a dental hygienist do?
If you are not what is a dental hygienist, or what does a dental hygienist do? Please visit our dental hygiene, dental hygienist, teeth stain removal, bad breath treatment, gum disease treatments and needle free anesthetics pages.
If you would like to see a new dentist or dental hygienist, you can register with us online here. If you would like to book a one-off dental hygiene appointment, we also offer direct access hygiene appointments.
Are you worried about paying for your dental care?
Ongoing dental care at FHDC is provided via our Essential Care Membership plan. This can save you hundreds of pounds versus pay-as-you-go dental charges. If you would like more information about this, please call our reception team on 0113 275 1323 during normal opening hours.
To register as a new patient click here
