How to Remove Tartar and Whiten Your Teeth Naturally: A Simple Recipe

Tartar buildup is a common dental problem, often resulting from poor oral hygiene and certain dietary habits. High-salt foods, in particular, can create an ideal environment for tartar formation. Fortunately, there are simple and natural ways to remove tartar and whiten your teeth without spending money on expensive procedures or visiting the dentist.

What is Tartar and Why Does it Form on Teeth?

Tartar is the hardened accumulation of bacterial plaque that forms on teeth, sometimes even below the gum line, leading to potential gum problems. There are two main types of tartar:

1. Supragingival Tartar: Located above the gum line, on the surface of the teeth.
2. Subgingival Tartar: Found below the gum line, this type can lead to periodontal pockets.

How to Remove Tartar at Home

Home remedies can be an effective way to reduce tartar and prevent it from building up again. In addition to keeping your teeth clean, these remedies may also help whiten them.

1. Daily Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene is the foundation of preventing tartar buildup. To ensure a clean mouth, follow these tips:

• Brush your teeth after every meal using a medium-hard toothbrush and high-quality toothpaste.
• Floss at least once a day in addition to brushing.
• Use mouthwash to eliminate bacteria in hard-to-reach areas (mouthwash should not replace brushing and flossing).
• Consider using a dental irrigator to clean areas that toothbrushes or floss can’t reach, like beneath the gums.

2. Baking Soda

Baking soda is an excellent remedy for removing tartar naturally. Here’s how to use it:

• Mix two parts baking soda with one part salt, adding a little water to form a paste.
• Dip your toothbrush into the paste and gently scrub areas with tartar buildup.
• Rinse your mouth thoroughly, ideally using a dental irrigator to ensure no baking soda residue remains, as it can damage enamel.

3. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice has strong antibacterial properties, making it effective for tartar removal. To use lemon as a mouthwash:

• Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into about 150 ml of water.
• Swish it around in your mouth, then rinse well.
• Since lemon is acidic, it’s important to rinse your mouth thoroughly afterward to protect your tooth enamel.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can help disinfect and eliminate tartar. To make a simple mouthwash:

• Mix 100 ml of water with 30 ml of hydrogen peroxide.
• Swish the mixture around in your mouth for about a minute, then rinse well.
• This helps disinfect and break down tartar buildup.

Common Causes of Tartar Buildup

Understanding the causes of tartar formation can help you take steps to prevent it. Common factors include:

• Poor oral hygiene: Inconsistent brushing and flossing allow plaque to harden into tartar.
• Age: Older adults are more prone to tartar buildup.
• Dry mouth: A lack of saliva can contribute to plaque accumulation.
• Tobacco use: Smoking can promote tartar formation.
• Misaligned or crooked teeth: Teeth that are difficult to clean properly are more prone to tartar buildup.
• Vitamin C deficiency: A lack of this vital nutrient can affect gum health.
• Poor nutrition: A diet low in essential nutrients can affect oral health.
• Improper dental restorations: Restorative work, like crowns or fillings, that’s done improperly can create areas where tartar builds up.
• Certain medications: Some drugs can encourage tartar formation.
• Health conditions: Diseases like AIDS, leukemia, or conditions that compromise the immune system increase the likelihood of tartar buildup.
• Hormonal changes: Changes during pregnancy or puberty can increase tartar formation.
• Genetics: Some individuals are more prone to tartar due to their genetic makeup.

Symptoms of Tartar Buildup

It’s important to recognize the signs of tartar buildup early to prevent more severe dental issues. Symptoms include:

• Gum inflammation: Swollen, red, or bleeding gums.
• Bad breath: Persistent foul odor from the mouth.
• Gum color changes: Darker red or purple gums, sometimes with receding gums.
• Increased sensitivity: Teeth or gums becoming more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.
• Bleeding gums: Gums that bleed more easily during brushing or flossing.

Professional Tartar Removal

While home remedies can help, the most effective way to remove tartar is to visit a professional dental clinic for a thorough cleaning. A dentist or hygienist can remove tartar from both above and below the gum line. It’s recommended to have regular dental check-ups to prevent tartar buildup from leading to more serious oral health issues.

Conclusion

Maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine is the most effective way to prevent tartar buildup. Brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash should be part of your daily regimen. Natural remedies like baking soda, lemon juice, and hydrogen peroxide can also support your oral care routine and help whiten your teeth. However, regular visits to your dentist are essential for long-term dental health.

By addressing the causes of tartar buildup and taking proactive steps, you can enjoy cleaner teeth and healthier gums.