Tartar is a hard mineral that forms when plaque on teeth is not removed. Tartar can only be cleaned with dental equipment. So, you should prevent their formation. To prevent tartar, you must get used to maintaining good dental hygiene. This means that you must immediately remove plaque by brushing and flossing between your teeth, and regularly cleaning your teeth with the help of a dentist. By keeping them clean thoroughly, your teeth can stay healthy and free of tartar for years to come.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Maintaining Good Dental and Oral Hygiene
Step 1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day
To remove plaque from your teeth and prevent tartar from forming, you must brush your teeth. Brushing your teeth twice a day is recommended to control plaque and tartar.
It's best to brush your teeth in the morning after waking up and at night before going to bed. However, you can also set your own brushing schedule and follow it every day
Step 2. Clean between your teeth with dental floss every day
Tartar can form between your teeth if you leave food residue there. Cleaning between your teeth once a day can clean the dirt that causes plaque and tartar.
- When cleaning between your teeth, move the floss slowly between your teeth. Move the dental floss around the area between the teeth to clean the dirt there. Then pull the dental floss out in a sawing motion.
- The accumulation of sugar and carbohydrates between the teeth has the potential to turn into plaque and tartar. If you have recently eaten sugar or a carbohydrate meal, consider cleaning between your teeth immediately afterward.
Step 3. Use a plaque-removing mouthwash
There are several types of mouthwash that are formulated to help remove plaque from teeth. These mouthwashes can usually help loosen plaque, thereby increasing the effectiveness of your brushing and cleaning between the teeth. The combination of using mouthwash and cleaning between your teeth once a day can improve dental health while preventing tartar.
- Use mouthwash after brushing and flossing between your teeth to remove any remaining debris.
- Pay attention to the label on the mouthwash package. Make sure the mouthwash has antibacterial properties that are formulated to fight plaque. A good mouthwash usually has a label that marks the approval of a dentist association, for example the Indonesian Dentist Association.
Step 4. Avoid foods that damage teeth
To prevent plaque buildup, you should avoid trigger foods. These foods include sugary foods and carbohydrates such as candy, soda, and bread.
If you eat these foods, brush your teeth immediately after. However, if you can't brush your teeth right away, be sure to drink plenty of water afterward. That way, you can clean these food residues from your teeth
Method 2 of 3: Removes Plaque Effectively
Step 1. Use the right toothbrush
If you want to remove plaque and prevent tartar, you must use an effective toothbrush. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush so that plaque can be removed but your gums and tooth enamel are not damaged.
Choose a round toothbrush bristles. The bristles of this brush can also protect your enamel and gums from damage
Step 2. Use a tartar-fighting toothpaste
There are many toothpastes to choose from, but be sure to buy one labeled tartar control. Toothpaste like this contains mild abrasive ingredients that can remove plaque from the tooth surface.
If your teeth are sensitive, be sure to choose a toothpaste labeled tartar control for sensitive teeth
Step 3. Brush your teeth at a 45° angle in short strokes
To remove plaque below the gum line, aim your toothbrush properly. By holding the toothbrush at a 45° angle, some of the bristles can reach the area below the gum line.
Brush your teeth in a circular motion in short, gentle motions. This is the most effective movement to clean plaque and food debris
Step 4. Brush all teeth thoroughly
Take the time to clean each tooth. If you take the time to clean everything, your total brushing time should be about 2 minutes.
You must clean the entire surface of the teeth. So, take the time to clean the inside, outside, and top of your teeth
Method 3 of 3: Cleaning Teeth with the Help of a Dentist
Step 1. Create a schedule for regular dental cleanings
To be free from tartar, you should clean your teeth regularly with the help of a dentist. Be sure to set a schedule for cleaning your teeth early so you can do it regularly.
Although many dentists recommend regular cleanings twice a year, the frequency you need may vary. Consult with your dentist to determine how often you should clean your teeth based on your risk factors and dental problems
Step 2. Call your dentist if you suspect a problem with your teeth
If you experience pain or irritation in your mouth, this may be a sign that there is a problem that requires treatment. Call the dentist and make an appointment for a dental check-up and treatment.
Step 3. Have your teeth checked
First, the dentist will look inside your mouth and examine your teeth. He or she will look all over the teeth and check for signs of plaque and tartar buildup.
The dentist will also check for signs of other dental problems such as gingivitis
Step 4. Clean the teeth with the help of a dentist
In this process, the doctor may first clean the plaque and tartar manually. It will use a metal tool called a scaler. The dentist will then clean your teeth with a harsh toothpaste. This toothpaste will clean the remaining plaque and tartar.
The harsh toothpaste used by dentists will make your teeth shiny. However, this toothpaste should only be used twice a year. If used more often than that, the surface of your tooth enamel can be damaged
Step 5. Use an ultrasonic cleaner
After a general dental cleaning with the help of a dentist, you may still need further treatment. If you have a large amount of plaque and tartar build-up on your teeth, your dentist may use an ultrasonic cleaner. This tool uses vibration and water to remove large clumps of tartar.
