Tartar: How to Manage and Fight It for a Healthier Smile

Tartar buildup is one of the most common dental issues, and if left unchecked, it can lead to cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Unlike plaque, which can be removed with regular brushing and flossing, tartar is a hardened form of plaque that requires professional removal. At Lifetime Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Arzegar and our team are here to help you understand what tartar is, how it forms, and the best strategies for managing and preventing it.

Here’s everything you need to know about tartar and tips for keeping your teeth clean, healthy, and tartar-free.

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What is Tartar?

Tartar, also known as calculus, is a hardened form of plaque that builds up on your teeth and gumline when plaque isn’t removed promptly. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that naturally forms on your teeth, but when it isn’t brushed or flossed away, it hardens into tartar within 24 to 72 hours. Tartar has a rough texture, can trap stains, and often appears yellow or brown, making it both a cosmetic and health concern.

Why Tartar is Problematic:

• Leads to Tooth Decay: Tartar harbors bacteria that produce acids, which can erode enamel and lead to cavities.
• Increases Risk of Gum Disease: Tartar buildup near the gumline can irritate and inflame gums, leading to gingivitis and, if untreated, periodontal disease.
• Causes Bad Breath: Tartar buildup can trap food particles and bacteria, contributing to persistent bad breath.

Once tartar forms, it can only be removed with professional dental tools during a cleaning.

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How to Manage Tartar Buildup

While you can’t remove tartar on your own, there are effective ways to prevent and manage it, starting with a good oral hygiene routine and regular dental visits.

1. Brush and Floss Consistently

The most effective way to prevent tartar buildup is by brushing and flossing consistently. Plaque, which turns into tartar, forms every day, so it’s essential to stay on top of your daily routine.

Tips for Brushing and Flossing:

• Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush all surfaces of your teeth for at least two minutes each time.
• Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and below the gumline, where your toothbrush can’t reach.
• Consider an Electric Toothbrush: Electric toothbrushes provide consistent motion and pressure, which may be more effective at removing plaque.

For more guidance on brushing and flossing, check out our Exams and Cleanings page.

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2. Use Tartar-Control Toothpaste

Tartar-control toothpaste contains ingredients like pyrophosphates or zinc citrate that help prevent plaque from hardening into tartar. Fluoride toothpaste also strengthens enamel, making it more resistant to decay and tartar formation.

Look for Key Ingredients:

• Fluoride: Protects against cavities and strengthens enamel.
• Pyrophosphates: Reduces tartar buildup by slowing down the hardening process.
• Zinc Citrate: Helps control plaque and bacteria, reducing the formation of tartar.

Using tartar-control toothpaste daily can be an effective way to manage and reduce tartar buildup over time.

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3. Rinse with an Antibacterial Mouthwash

An antibacterial mouthwash helps reduce the bacteria that form plaque, lowering the likelihood of tartar buildup. Using mouthwash after brushing and flossing offers extra protection by reaching areas that are hard to clean.

Benefits of Antibacterial Mouthwash:

• Reduces Plaque-Causing Bacteria: Helps minimize the risk of tartar buildup by reducing bacteria.
• Prevents Gingivitis: Reduces inflammation and helps keep gums healthy.
• Freshens Breath: Keeps your mouth feeling fresh, which can be a plus for people prone to tartar buildup.

Rinse with mouthwash twice a day after brushing and flossing to add an extra layer of protection against tartar.

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4. Limit Sugary and Starchy Foods

Sugary and starchy foods feed the bacteria in your mouth, producing acids that increase plaque buildup. By limiting these foods, you reduce the environment that leads to tartar formation.

Foods to Limit:

• Sugary Snacks and Drinks: Sodas, candy, and desserts can contribute to plaque and tartar.
• Refined Carbohydrates: Foods like white bread, chips, and pasta can turn into sugar in the mouth, leading to increased plaque.

Opt for a balanced diet rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains to support overall oral health.

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How to Fight Tartar with Professional Care

Once tartar forms, it can only be removed with professional tools during a dental cleaning. Regular visits to your dentist ensure that tartar is kept in check and that your teeth and gums stay healthy.

Professional Dental Cleanings

During a dental cleaning, your hygienist will use special tools to remove tartar from above and below the gumline. This process, called scaling, is essential for preventing gum disease and maintaining oral health.

Benefits of Regular Cleanings:

• Removes Hardened Tartar: Scaling effectively removes all tartar, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Polishes Teeth: After scaling, your teeth are polished to remove any remaining plaque and surface stains, leaving your smile brighter.
• Protects Against Gum Disease: Regular cleanings help prevent gum inflammation and recession caused by tartar buildup.

We recommend scheduling cleanings every six months or more frequently if you’re prone to tartar or gum issues.

Scaling and Root Planing for Advanced Tartar

If tartar has caused significant gum disease, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing. This deep-cleaning procedure involves cleaning below the gumline and smoothing the roots of your teeth to remove bacteria and allow gums to reattach to the teeth.

Why Scaling and Root Planing is Effective:

• Removes Deep Tartar Buildup: Reaches areas below the gumline where tartar and bacteria have accumulated.
• Promotes Gum Healing: Smoothing the roots helps prevent further infection and supports healthy gum attachment.

For more information on managing advanced tartar buildup, visit our Periodontal Treatment page.

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Lifetime Smiles: Helping You Prevent and Manage Tartar

At Lifetime Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re dedicated to helping our patients prevent tartar buildup and maintain a lifetime of healthy smiles. Dr. Arzegar and our team provide thorough cleanings, expert advice, and personalized care plans to help you keep tartar in check.

Why Choose Lifetime Smiles for Tartar Control?:

• Comprehensive Cleanings: Our hygienists are skilled at removing all traces of plaque and tartar, leaving your teeth and gums healthy.
• Personalized Care Plans: We assess your unique oral health needs and offer tailored advice to help you prevent tartar at home.
• Patient Education: We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge to keep their smiles healthy between visits.

If you’re due for a cleaning or want more information on preventing tartar, schedule an appointment with Dr. Arzegar today.

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Take Control of Tartar for a Healthier Smile

Tartar doesn’t stand a chance against a consistent oral hygiene routine, smart diet choices, and regular dental visits. By brushing, flossing, and rinsing daily—and partnering with your dentist for professional cleanings—you can effectively manage and prevent tartar buildup, keeping your smile bright and healthy.

For more tips on keeping your teeth clean and tartar-free, visit our Blog, where we share helpful advice on achieving optimal oral health.