How Do You Stop Tartar On Your Teeth?

Tired of that stubborn yellowish buildup on your teeth? Tartar can be unsightly and harmful to your oral health. If left unchecked, it can lead to gum disease, cavities, and bad breath. But don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to stop tartar in its tracks. This guide will show you how to prevent tartar from forming and keep your teeth healthy, all while addressing common concerns and user questions along the way.

What Is Tartar and Why Should You Care?

Before diving into prevention, let’s take a closer look at what tartar is and why it’s so important to prevent it. Tartar is the hardened form of plaque—a sticky film that naturally forms on your teeth throughout the day. If plaque isn’t removed by brushing and flossing, it hardens over time and becomes tartar, which can’t be removed by brushing alone.

Why does tartar matter?
Tartar irritates your gums, leading to gum disease, and can even cause tooth decay. The longer it stays on your teeth, the harder it is to remove. So, stopping tartar before it forms is key to maintaining a healthy, attractive smile.

How Does Plaque Turn Into Tartar?

Many people wonder, “How quickly does plaque turn into tartar?”
Plaque starts to form on your teeth within hours after brushing. If not removed, it can start turning into tartar in as little as 24 to 72 hours. Once tartar forms, it’s permanent until a dentist removes it. This is why it’s so important to practice good oral hygiene regularly.

Top Ways to Prevent Tartar: Actionable Steps You Can Take Today

Prevention is always the best approach when it comes to tartar. Let’s break down the most effective ways you can stop tartar from building up on your teeth.

1. Brush with Anti-Tartar Toothpaste

One of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent tartar buildup is to use anti-tartar toothpaste. What makes anti-tartar toothpaste so special?
These toothpastes contain ingredients like pyrophosphates or zinc citrate, which actively work to prevent plaque from hardening into tartar. Here’s how these ingredients work:

Pyrophosphates: They inhibit the formation of calcium phosphate, the mineral that binds plaque to your teeth.
Zinc citrate: Helps neutralize acids that would otherwise encourage plaque formation, thus slowing down the tartar buildup process.

Tips for Brushing

Brush for at least two minutes, ensuring you cover all surfaces of your teeth, including the back and along the gum line.
Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid irritating your gums while still effectively removing plaque.

2. Flossing: Don’t Skip This Step!

Flossing is essential for preventing tartar between your teeth, where toothbrushes can’t reach. Which type of floss is best?
It really depends on your specific needs:

Traditional floss: Perfect for most people, especially those with normal tooth spacing.
Interdental brushes: Ideal for those with larger gaps between their teeth or those with gum conditions, as they can remove more plaque in hard-to-reach areas.

Flossing Tips

Floss at least once a day—ideally before bed.
Make sure to gently slide the floss between your teeth and around the gum line to remove plaque without injuring your gums.

3. Use Mouthwash to Fight Plaque Bacteria

Mouthwash is an often-overlooked but powerful tool in tartar prevention. Different types of mouthwash work in different ways, so choosing the right one is important:

Antiseptic mouthwash: Contains ingredients like chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride, which target bacteria that cause plaque. These mouthwashes help keep plaque from forming and hardening into tartar.
Fluoride mouthwash: Helps to remineralize tooth enamel and reduce plaque buildup.

Mouthwash Tips

Use mouthwash after brushing and flossing to kill any remaining bacteria.
Choose alcohol-free options if you have sensitive gums or dry mouth.

4. Eat Tartar-Fighting Foods

Your diet plays a huge role in your oral health. Which foods should you focus on to prevent tartar?

Crunchy fruits and vegetables: Apples, carrots, and celery naturally scrub your teeth and increase saliva production, which helps neutralize acids.
Dairy products: Cheese and yogurt contain calcium, which strengthens tooth enamel and prevents plaque buildup.
Green tea: Contains antioxidants like catechins that have been shown to reduce oral bacteria, lowering the risk of plaque.

Foods to Avoid

Sugary snacks: These feed bacteria in your mouth, promoting plaque buildup.
Acidic foods and drinks: Soda and citrus fruits can erode tooth enamel and lead to more plaque buildup.

When to See a Dentist: Early Warning Signs of Tartar Buildup

Even with great at-home care, tartar can still form. How do you know when you need a dentist’s help?
Look out for these warning signs:

Yellowish or brownish buildup near your gum line: This is one of the first signs of tartar.
Bleeding or swollen gums: Tartar can cause gum irritation and bleeding, signaling that it’s time for a professional cleaning.
Persistent bad breath: Tartar harbors bacteria, which can lead to bad breath.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule a dental cleaning.

Scaling and Root Planing: What Happens at the Dentist’s Office?

If tartar has already formed, your dentist will need to remove it using special tools. What exactly happens during a dental cleaning?

Scaling: The dentist uses a tool to scrape off tartar from above and below your gum line.
Root planing: This smooths the surfaces of your teeth and roots, making it harder for plaque to stick in the future.

This process helps remove even the most stubborn tartar and restores the health of your gums.

Common Tartar Concerns: Answering Your Questions

Here are some common questions people have about tartar:

Is yellowing always tartar?
Yellowing teeth can sometimes be a sign of tartar, but they can also be stained by food or drinks. A dentist can help you determine the cause.
How long does it take for plaque to turn into tartar?
Plaque can turn into tartar in as little as 24 to 72 hours if not properly removed.

Quick Tips for Tartar Prevention

Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily, especially before bedtime.
Use mouthwash after brushing to kill bacteria and prevent plaque.
Eat crunchy, fiber-rich fruits and vegetables.
Avoid sugary snacks and acidic drinks.
Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings.

Conclusion:

Preventing tartar is more than just about maintaining an aesthetic smile—it’s about protecting your long-term oral health. By following these simple steps—brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, and eating the right foods—you can prevent tartar from forming and avoid costly dental procedures down the road.

Remember, tartar prevention is a proactive process. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to remove. So start today, and keep your smile healthy and bright for years to come!