Highlights:
- Tartar can’t be removed at home—only a dentist can do it safely.
- DIY removal risks damaging enamel and gums.
- Use fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and rinse with mouthwash to prevent buildup.
- Avoid sugary foods and drink water after meals to reduce plaque.
- Get professional cleanings every six months for a healthy, tartar-free smile.
Quick Answer: No, tartar cannot be safely removed at home. Only dental professionals have the tools and expertise to effectively and safely remove tartar without risking damage to your teeth or gums.
Tartar, or dental calculus, is hardened plaque that adheres tightly to tooth surfaces. While it might be tempting to try at-home methods to remove it, these can often do more harm than good, causing injuries to your gums or enamel.
Understanding why professional removal is necessary and focusing on prevention is key to protecting your oral health.
Let’s explore what tartar is, why DIY removal is risky, and what you can do to prevent tartar buildup in the first place.
What Is Tartar, and Why Is It Harmful?
Tartar is plaque that has hardened on your teeth over time. It forms when plaque isn’t removed regularly through brushing and flossing, leading to a tough, mineralized layer that’s much harder to clean off.
Tartar can develop above and below the gumline, creating both cosmetic and health concerns. There is also a condition known as black tartar, which, as you might have guessed, also warrants a prompt visit to your dentist.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Tartar
Tartar poses serious risks to your oral health:
- Gum disease: Tartar buildup irritates your gums, increasing your risk of gingivitis and potentially progressing to more severe periodontal disease.
- Tooth decay: Because tartar traps bacteria, it can speed up enamel erosion and lead to cavities.
- Stained teeth: Its rough, porous surface absorbs stains from foods and drinks, leaving your teeth discolored even if you brush regularly.
- Bad breath: The bacteria harbored in tartar produce unpleasant odors, making it a common cause of persistent bad breath.
The longer tartar remains untreated, the harder it is to remove. Make sure to visit your dentist on a regular basis for a professional cleaning.
Why Can’t You Remove Tartar at Home?
Tartar sticks firmly to your enamel, and only a dental professional has the tools to remove it safely. While it’s tempting to tackle it yourself, there are good reasons why DIY methods are not the way to go.
Here’s why removing tartar at home isn’t safe or effective:
Tartar Bonds Tightly to Enamel
Tartar is hardened plaque that clings to your teeth. Brushing harder or using sharp objects won’t break it down—and might actually do more harm than good.
You Could Damage Your Enamel
Your enamel is the protective layer of your teeth, and once it’s gone, it’s gone for good. Trying to scrape off tartar on your own can chip or wear away enamel, leaving your teeth more prone to cavities and sensitivity.
It’s Easy to Injure Your Gums
Without proper technique, you can accidentally poke or cut your gums, causing pain, bleeding, and even gum recession.
Risk of Infection
Using unclean tools or causing small injuries in your mouth can invite bacteria to take hold, leading to infections or worsening gum disease.
What’s the safer option? Your dentist or hygienist with a professional cleaning. They use special tools to gently and thoroughly remove buildup without damaging your teeth or gums.
How to Prevent Tartar Buildup at Home
Preventing tartar buildup is all about sticking to healthy habits and a consistent oral hygiene routine. Did you know that no less than 68% of adults have tartar on their teeth? While it’s common, you can take simple steps at home to reduce your chances of developing it.
Brush the Right Way
- Use fluoride toothpaste to toughen enamel and fight decay.
- Brush twice a day with gentle, circular motions and focus on reaching every tooth surface. Don’t forget your gumline!
Don’t Skip Flossing
Flossing is your best friend when it comes to reaching plaque between teeth and under the gums—where your toothbrush can’t go. Floss once daily to keep these hard-to-reach spots clean and tartar-free.
If you’re looking for a proper way to floss, check out my flossing guide and the video below!
Rinse with Mouthwash
Using an antiseptic mouthwash can reduce the bacteria in your mouth, which means less plaque forming in the first place. Add a quick rinse to your routine after brushing and flossing for an extra boost.
Choose Healthy Habits
- Cut Back on Sugary and Starchy Foods: These foods fuel the bacteria that lead to plaque. Limiting them can make a big difference.
- Drink Water After Meals: A simple glass of water will wash away food particles and neutralize acids, making it harder for plaque to harden into tartar.
Don’t forget to see your dentist regularly for a professional cleaning to tackle any buildup you can’t reach at home!
FAQs About Tartar Removal and Prevention
Q: Is there a safe way to remove tartar without a dentist?
A: Unfortunately, no. Once tartar hardens on your teeth, only a dentist or hygienist can safely remove it with their professional tools. Trying to remove it yourself can damage your enamel or gums, leading to bigger problems down the road.
Q: Are there products that reduce tartar?
A: Yes, tartar-control toothpaste and antiseptic (often prescription-only) mouthwash can help prevent new tartar from forming by reducing plaque buildup. However, these products won’t remove tartar that’s already there—only professional cleaning can do that.
Q: How often should I get a professional cleaning?
A: Most people benefit from a professional cleaning every six months. If you’re prone to tartar buildup, gum disease, or other dental concerns, your dentist might recommend more frequent visits to keep your smile healthy.
Key Takeaways
- Tartar cannot be safely removed at home—always see a dental professional.
- Prevent tartar by brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash regularly.
- Schedule regular cleanings to maintain a healthy, tartar-free smile.
