The Ultimate Guide to Removing Tartar from Your Teeth

When you have tartar on your teeth, it’s easy to feel like the problem isn’t going to go away on its own, and can even make you feel embarrassed to smile or speak with people. However, there are plenty of steps you can take at home how to get rid of tartar in your mouth for good! If you’re in need of an immediate solution, consult with your dentist immediately; if you want to take care of it yourself, here are some things you can do in order to get rid of tartar from your teeth as soon as possible!

1: Try Brushing Better

Everyone knows how important brushing is for getting rid of tartar, but sometimes you need to step up your game. Check out our video above and in it you’ll learn a few tricks like using an oral irrigator and a tongue scraper that will help get at those hard-to-reach spots. This will go a long way toward helping you brush better—and perhaps giving you some new strategies that make all that brushing more fun. It’s not uncommon for patients (especially kids) to look forward to their checkups after getting introduced to these tools, because they have made such a big difference in their lives!

2: Use Mouthwash Every Day

Mouthwash won’t get rid of tartar on its own, but it is a powerful weapon in your anti-tartar arsenal. Many mouthwashes contain ingredients that are toxic and can damage tooth enamel over time. Instead, opt for an alcohol-free mouthwash or one made with natural ingredients like tea tree oil. I recommend avoiding peppermint and wintergreen flavors because they’re more likely to irritate your gums than actual mint. Always use cool water when you rinse; hot water will dry out your mouth and make it even more susceptible to plaque buildup (or worsen any existing dental issues).

3: Floss, Floss, Floss

Most people don’t floss enough. If you’re trying to get rid of tartar and other gunk, regular flossing is your best bet. If your gums are especially sensitive or receding, you might want to consider using a water flosser instead of traditional emergency dental extraction floss. Water flossers use a high-pressure stream of water that can clean between teeth more effectively than normal string dental floss can (and without as much irritation). If your teeth tend to move around easily, you might also want to try using a rubber guard at night; it will keep them in place while you sleep so they don’t slip back into an unwanted position while you snooze.

4: Seek Out Professional Help

If you have cavities or dental issues, schedule an appointment with your dentist. If you’re still experiencing pain after seeing a dentist, ask for pain medications—but do not use them without consulting your doctor first. It is okay to take ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) if directed by a medical professional. Remember: Don’t Use Tylenol and Ibuprofen Together! While these common pain relievers can be used together occasionally, they are not recommended as a long-term solution because they both contain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs can increase risk of bleeding in those who take blood thinners such as warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), and others.

5: Avoid Certain Foods

Some foods, like sugar and baked goods, are extremely hard on your teeth. Cut back on sweets and eating sugary cereals. Also, stay away from greasy fast food it’s a tough combination. To brush with while you’re already having an excruciating time flossing. Trying to keep your mouth clean (especially during lunchtime). If you have tartar-based problems or a smaller concern like plaque build-up in certain areas of your mouth, consider visiting a professional for a 24-hour emergency extraction. For less immediate relief,

6: Consult a Dentist

If your dentist notices that you have tartar on your teeth, they will. Recommend you get it removed with an ultrasonic scaler or a dental drill. This isn’t a 24-hour emergency extraction — so don’t plan a visit immediately after eating a double fudge sundae. But if you notice redness or extreme pain in your gums, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible. They may be able to clean it up at their office or refer. You to someone who can remove it more quickly. There are also certain home remedies and natural treatment that are known for their teeth whitening benefits. But again, always consult with your dentist before making any changes to your routine.