What Is Tartar? Tartar is a hard, grainy deposit that forms on the teeth. It’s essentially hardened plaque—a layer of bacteria and food particles that builds up on the surface of your teeth. While plaque can usually be removed with regular brushing and flossing, once it hardens into tartar, it becomes much more difficult to get rid of. At that point, professional removal by a dentist or dental hygienist is necessary. Tartar can form both above and below the gumline, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Why Preventing Tartar Buildup Is So Important
Tartar can lead to a range of issues—from cosmetic concerns like tooth discoloration to more serious dental problems that require professional treatment, such as cavities and gum inflammation (gingivitis). It creates a rough surface on your teeth where bacteria can easily accumulate, leading to even more plaque and tartar formation. Additionally, tartar buildup beneath the gumline can cause irritation and inflammation, eventually resulting in more severe conditions like periodontitis. That’s why preventing tartar is essential—not only for maintaining overall oral health but also for keeping your smile bright and healthy. Keep reading to find out how you can stop tartar in its tracks!
The Risks of Tartar: Why Prevention Matters
Tartar doesn’t just affect your mouth—it can also impact your overall health. Recent studies have shown a link between oral health problems, such as periodontitis, and systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. The inflammation and bacteria caused by tartar can enter the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body. So preventing tartar buildup is not just about preserving your smile—it’s also an important part of protecting your overall well-being.
How to Prevent Tartar: Oral Hygiene Practices
Preventing tartar—like many of the other issues we've covered in our blogs—starts with good oral hygiene. First and foremost, it’s important to brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. Flossing at least once a day is also crucial to remove food particles and plaque stuck between the teeth. For an even deeper clean, you can use interdental brushes or toothpicks to reach the tight spaces your toothbrush might miss. It’s also recommended to use mouthwash regularly to kill bacteria throughout the mouth and deliver fluoride to hard-to-reach areas.
In addition to your daily routine, regular check-ups with a dentist or dental hygienist are essential. They can professionally remove any tartar that has formed and provide personalized tips and advice on how to improve your oral care routine to prevent future buildup.
Your Actions Against Tartar
Preventing tartar buildup is a key part of an effective oral health routine. By brushing and flossing thoroughly every day, visiting your dentist or dental hygienist regularly, and being mindful of your dietary habits, you can take meaningful steps to reduce tartar formation. It’s important to make these practices a consistent part of your daily routine to improve your oral health and keep your smile bright. Smyle’s products can help you along the way—discover just how special oral care can be in our shop!
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