Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hardened plaque that forms on teeth over time. Once tartar has developed, it cannot be removed by regular brushing alone and requires professional dental cleaning. However, there are some home remedies that may help prevent tartar buildup and maintain oral health. Here are remedies:
1. Brushing with Baking Soda: Baking soda is a natural abrasive that can help break down tartar removal. Mix a small amount of baking soda with your regular toothpaste and brush your teeth gently for about two minutes. Be cautious not to use baking soda too frequently as it can be abrasive to tooth enamel.
2. Oil Pulling: Swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil or sesame oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes (oil pulling) may help reduce bacteria and plaque, which can contribute to tartar formation. Spit out the oil afterward and rinse your mouth with water.
3. Flossing Daily: Regular flossing helps tarter removal plaque and food particles from between teeth, preventing tartar formation in those areas.
4. Mouthwash with Vinegar: Rinse your mouth with a mixture of equal parts water and apple cider vinegar or white vinegar. The acetic acid in vinegar may help inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to tartar buildup.
5. Chewing Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can stimulate saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles that can lead to tartar formation.
6. Strawberries: The malic acid in strawberries can act as a natural teeth whitener and help break down tartar. Mash a ripe strawberry and apply it to your teeth, leaving it on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
7. Orange Peel: Rub the inside of an orange peel on your teeth before bedtime. The vitamin C and calcium content in orange peels may help reduce tartar formation.
8. Cloves: Cloves have antimicrobial properties that can help combat bacteria in the mouth. Chew on a few cloves or use clove oil as a mouth rinse to promote oral hygiene.
9. Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash: Dilute hydrogen peroxide with water (1:1 ratio) and use it as a mouthwash once a week. It can help reduce bacteria and plaque on teeth.
10. Green Tea: Drink green tea regularly as it contains catechins that may help inhibit bacteria growth in the mouth and reduce tartar formation.
11. Saltwater Rinse: Mix a teaspoon of salt in warm water and use it as a mouth rinse daily. The saline solution can help reduce bacteria and prevent tartar formation.
12. Neem Twig Chewing: Chewing on neem twigs can help maintain oral health and prevent tartar buildup due to neem’s antimicrobial properties.
13. Turmeric Paste: Create a paste with turmeric powder and water. Apply it to your teeth and leave it for a few minutes before rinsing. Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can contribute to oral health.
14. Sesame Seed Chewing: Chewing on sesame seeds can help remove plaque and tartar from teeth due to their abrasive texture.
15. Activated Charcoal: Brush your teeth with activated charcoal once a week. It may help absorb stains and remove surface tartar.
Remember, while these remedies can be beneficial in maintaining oral health, they are not a substitute for professional dental care. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for removing tartar that has already formed and ensuring overall oral health. Additionally, practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and using fluoride toothpaste to help prevent tartar and other dental issues. If you have specific concerns about tartar buildup or your oral health, consult a dentist for personalized advice and treatment.