How To Prevent Tartar On Teeth

Ever run your tongue along your teeth and feel a slightly rough, gritty surface? That's likely tartar, also known as dental calculus. Tartar isn't just a cosmetic issue; it's a hardened form of plaque that can lead to significant oral health problems. Unlike plaque, which you can brush away, tartar is stubbornly attached to your teeth and requires professional cleaning to remove.

Tartar provides a rough surface that allows more plaque to accumulate, creating a vicious cycle that can result in gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), cavities, and even tooth loss. Preventing tartar buildup is crucial for maintaining healthy gums, strong teeth, and a confident smile. It can also save you money and discomfort in the long run by avoiding costly and invasive dental procedures.

What simple steps can I take to keep tartar at bay?

How often should I brush to prevent tartar?

To prevent tartar buildup, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day, ideally once in the morning and once before bed. Consistent and thorough brushing is crucial in removing plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that hardens into tartar if not removed promptly.

Brushing twice daily disrupts the formation of plaque before it has a chance to mineralize and harden into tartar. When you sleep, saliva production decreases, creating a more favorable environment for bacteria to thrive and form plaque. Brushing before bed removes these bacteria and food particles that would otherwise contribute to overnight plaque formation. Morning brushing then removes any plaque that may have formed overnight and freshens your breath for the day. While twice-daily brushing is a minimum, brushing after meals can provide even better protection against tartar. If brushing isn't possible after a meal, rinsing your mouth with water can help remove food particles and reduce the acidity in your mouth. Also, remember that the quality of your brushing is just as important as the frequency. Use a fluoride toothpaste, a soft-bristled toothbrush, and proper brushing technique to effectively remove plaque from all surfaces of your teeth, including along the gumline.

Does mouthwash really help control tartar buildup?

Yes, certain mouthwashes can help control tartar buildup, but they are not a replacement for regular brushing and flossing. Specifically, mouthwashes containing ingredients like fluoride or cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) can help prevent plaque from hardening into tartar.

While mouthwash can be a useful addition to your oral hygiene routine, it's crucial to understand its limitations. Mouthwash primarily targets plaque and bacteria in the mouth. By reducing the amount of plaque, which is the precursor to tartar, it can slow down tartar formation. However, once tartar has already formed, mouthwash cannot remove it. Tartar is a hardened deposit that requires professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. Therefore, think of mouthwash as a preventative measure, not a solution for existing tartar. To maximize the effectiveness of mouthwash in controlling tartar, use it after brushing and flossing. This allows the active ingredients in the mouthwash to reach all areas of the mouth and provide optimal protection against plaque buildup. Choosing a mouthwash specifically formulated to fight plaque and gingivitis (gum inflammation) will further enhance its tartar-control benefits. Remember to follow the instructions on the mouthwash label for proper usage, including the recommended amount and duration of rinsing. Ultimately, the best way to prevent tartar buildup is through a comprehensive oral hygiene routine:

Are some toothpastes better than others for tartar prevention?

Yes, toothpastes specifically formulated with ingredients like pyrophosphates, zinc citrate, or triclosan are more effective at preventing tartar buildup compared to regular toothpastes. These ingredients inhibit the mineralization of plaque, which is the initial step in tartar formation.

While all toothpastes contribute to tartar prevention by physically removing plaque during brushing, anti-tartar toothpastes contain active ingredients that target the chemical processes involved in tartar formation. Tartar, also known as calculus, is hardened plaque that firmly adheres to the teeth and can only be removed by a dental professional. Ingredients like pyrophosphates work by preventing calcium and phosphate ions in saliva from binding to the plaque matrix, thus hindering its hardening. Zinc citrate acts as an antibacterial agent, reducing the bacteria that contribute to plaque formation. Triclosan, although less common now due to concerns about antibiotic resistance, also has antibacterial properties that help control plaque.

Therefore, when choosing a toothpaste for tartar prevention, look for options clearly labeled as "anti-tartar" and containing one or more of these active ingredients. Consistent and thorough brushing, along with regular dental checkups, remains crucial for optimal tartar control, regardless of the toothpaste used. Remember that while anti-tartar toothpastes help prevent new tartar from forming, they cannot remove existing tartar.

What foods contribute most to tartar formation?

Foods high in sugars and starches are the primary culprits in tartar formation. These carbohydrates fuel the bacteria in your mouth, leading to increased acid production that erodes enamel and creates a sticky biofilm called plaque. When plaque isn't removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar (calculus).

Sugary drinks, including soda, juice, and sweetened coffee and tea, provide a readily available source of fuel for bacteria. Sticky candies, pastries, and even seemingly healthy snacks like dried fruit cling to teeth, prolonging the exposure to sugars and acids. Starchy foods like white bread, pasta, and potato chips also break down into simple sugars in the mouth, contributing to the problem. The more frequently these foods are consumed, the greater the risk of tartar buildup. Furthermore, acidic foods and drinks, while not directly contributing to the sugary fuel source, can weaken tooth enamel, making it more vulnerable to plaque adhesion and subsequent tartar formation. Therefore, minimizing consumption of citrus fruits, vinegar-based dressings, and sour candies can also aid in tartar prevention. Ultimately, a balanced diet, combined with excellent oral hygiene practices, is the best defense against tartar buildup.

How effective is flossing at preventing tartar between teeth?

Flossing is highly effective at preventing tartar formation between teeth because it removes plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that hardens into tartar. By disrupting plaque buildup in these hard-to-reach areas, flossing prevents the mineralization process that leads to tartar formation, thus maintaining better oral health.

Flossing is critical for preventing tartar in the interdental spaces, the areas between your teeth where your toothbrush bristles can't reach effectively. These spaces are ideal breeding grounds for bacteria. If plaque isn't removed regularly through flossing, minerals from saliva will bind to the plaque and harden it into tartar (also known as calculus). Tartar is much more difficult to remove than plaque and requires professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. Regular flossing, ideally once a day, is a cost-effective and preventative measure against not only tartar buildup, but also gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis). Flossing helps keep your gums healthy by removing bacteria that can inflame and irritate them, ultimately preserving the supporting structures of your teeth. Think of flossing as the essential partner to brushing – together, they provide comprehensive protection against plaque and tartar, contributing significantly to long-term oral health.

Can a dentist remove existing tartar, and how?

Yes, a dentist or dental hygienist can definitely remove existing tartar (also known as calculus). They use specialized instruments and techniques to carefully scrape and break away the hardened deposits from the surfaces of your teeth, both above and below the gumline.

Tartar removal is a crucial part of maintaining good oral health because unlike plaque, which is a soft, sticky film, tartar is hardened and cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone. If left untreated, tartar accumulation can lead to gingivitis (gum inflammation), periodontitis (gum disease), tooth decay, and ultimately, tooth loss. Dentists and hygienists are specifically trained to use tools like scalers and ultrasonic instruments to effectively and safely remove tartar without damaging the enamel of your teeth or harming your gums. The most common method of tartar removal is called scaling. Scaling involves the use of hand instruments or ultrasonic devices to physically scrape away the tartar deposits. Hand scalers are used for precision removal in hard-to-reach areas, while ultrasonic scalers use high-frequency vibrations and water to break up and flush away larger deposits. Following scaling, root planing may be performed to smooth the surfaces of the tooth roots, making it more difficult for bacteria and tartar to adhere in the future. Regular professional cleanings, usually every six months, are recommended to keep tartar buildup under control and prevent more serious oral health issues.

Is there a genetic predisposition to tartar buildup?

Yes, there is evidence suggesting a genetic predisposition to tartar buildup. While lifestyle factors like diet and oral hygiene play a significant role, genetics can influence the composition of your saliva, the shape and alignment of your teeth, and even the strength of your enamel – all of which can impact how quickly and easily tartar forms.

Some people naturally produce saliva that is more mineral-rich, which can accelerate the calcification process that turns plaque into tartar. Others may have genetic variations that affect the immune response in their mouths, leading to different levels of bacteria and inflammation, thereby influencing tartar formation. The physical structure of your mouth, which is also influenced by genetics, also plays a role. Crowded or misaligned teeth are harder to clean effectively, creating more areas where plaque and tartar can accumulate undisturbed. Furthermore, the strength and integrity of your tooth enamel, which is partially determined by genetics, can affect how easily plaque adheres to your teeth. People with weaker or more porous enamel may find that plaque binds more readily, leading to increased tartar buildup. While you can't change your genes, understanding that you might be predisposed to tartar buildup can empower you to be even more diligent with your oral hygiene routine and professional dental cleanings.

And that's a wrap on tartar prevention! Hopefully, these tips will help you keep your smile sparkling and your dentist happy. Thanks for reading, and don't be a stranger – come back soon for more dental health wisdom!