Is It Safe to Remove Tartar at Home? Proper Methods and Preventions
Many people wonder if it's safe to remove tartar at home. However, tartar, also known as calculus, is a hardened form of plaque that adheres tightly to the teeth. Removing it without professional tools and techniques can be dangerous. Here, we explore the safest and most effective methods to maintain your dental health.
Understanding Tartar and Plaque
Tartar, or calculus, is a hardened layer of dental plaque that forms when plaque is not removed through proper brushing and flossing. It's essentially mineralized plaque that sticks to the teeth and cannot be removed by simply brushing or rinsing. The process of plaque turning into tartar can take several months.
The Hazards of Home Removal
Removing tartar at home is not safe or recommended. Attempting to scrape tartar off your teeth with non-specialized tools can cause damage to the tooth enamel and gum tissue. Enamel is the protective layer on the outside of the teeth, and scraping it away can lead to tooth sensitivity and even expose the underlying dentin, which is more susceptible to decay. Additionally, using fingers or sharp objects can introduce bacteria into the mouth, leading to infections and, in some cases, gum disease.
Methods for Plaque Removal
Though tartar is difficult to remove, proper plaque removal is crucial to maintaining dental health. Here's a detailed guide to effective plaque removal at home:
Regular Brushing: Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. This helps remove the sticky, colorless biofilm of bacteria, known as plaque, that forms on the teeth.
Fluoride-Rich Toothpaste: Use fluoride toothpaste, as it is a vital mineral for strengthening teeth and preventing cavities. Despite some misconceptions, fluoride is generally considered safe and beneficial.
Mouthwash Use: Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can help kill harmful bacteria and reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
Flossing: Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from in between your teeth, where a toothbrush can't reach.
Mouth-Healthy Practices: Avoid using baking soda and fluoride together, as fluoride helps prevent cavities but applying it externally can be harmful if ingested. Instead, use food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) and 100% neem oil for a natural brushing experience.
Electric Toothbrushes: Use an electric toothbrush like Sonicare or Oral B for better plaque removal.
Peroxide Rinse: Rinse your mouth with food-grade hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth and disinfect.
Lighted Mirror: Use a lighted mirror to inspect your teeth for remaining plaque.
Dental Tools: If necessary, use dental tools like a proxabrush or dental picks to reach tight spaces between teeth.
Prevention is Key
The best way to avoid tartar buildup is by practicing excellent oral hygiene. Tartar formation is a gradual process, so regular cleaning and monitoring are crucial. As a general rule, plaque takes about 20 minutes to form, making it important to brush as soon as possible after meals. Using baking soda and water to make the mouth more alkaline can also help neutralize acids and prevent plaque formation.
Conclusion
Removing tartar at home is not a safe or recommended practice. The safest and most effective way to maintain your dental health is by following a regular oral hygiene routine and visiting a dental professional for cleanings. Dental care professionals use specialized tools and techniques to safely and effectively remove tartar and maintain a healthy smile.