“Be your own dentist!” — What you can safely do about tartar at home
Be careful with the idea of removing tartar yourself. Once plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), it generally can’t be safely removed with ordinary brushing or household ingredients. A dental professional uses specialized instruments to remove it without damaging the teeth or gums.
What you can do at home
Brush twice a day 🪥
Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush gently along the gumline for about two minutes.
Clean between your teeth daily
Floss or use interdental brushes to remove plaque from places your toothbrush can’t reach.
Use an antibacterial mouthwash if appropriate
It can be an addition to brushing and interdental cleaning, but it doesn’t remove established tartar.
Reduce frequent sugary snacks and drinks
Frequent sugar exposure encourages plaque and increases the risk of tooth decay.
Get professional cleanings
A dentist or dental hygienist can safely remove established calculus and check for gum disease.
🚫 Don’t scrape your teeth yourself
Avoid using knives, pins, metal tools, fingernails, or DIY dental scalers. You can cut your gums, scratch tooth surfaces, damage fillings, or push deposits below the gumline.
Also be cautious with viral remedies involving lemon juice, vinegar, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide. They don’t safely dissolve tartar and repeated use can irritate gums or damage enamel.
Bottom line: You can prevent and reduce new plaque buildup at home, but established tartar is best removed professionally. If your gums bleed frequently, are swollen, receding, or you have persistent bad breath, arrange a dental examination.
