Sparkly white teeth are the main ingredient that makes a smile genuinely charming. The pearly whites can come under the attack of plaque, tartar, decay and what not! Taking care of our teeth is of utmost importance. The grapevine says that specific ‘au natural DIY techniques are also highly beneficial in maintaining our dental hygiene? But, the imminent question is whether such at-home methods are worthwhile or are they simply a hoax? Let us try to analyze this question in the context of tartar and if it is possible to remove tartar at home.

What is tartar?

In Dentistry, tartar, also known as calculus, is a highly hardened form of plaque. Precipitation of saliva and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in plaque on the teeth causes tartar buildup. Well, what is plaque, you may ask? Dental plaque is a sticky biofilm of microorganisms formed on surfaces inside our mouth. Plaque is generally found between the teeth, along the teeth’s surface, behind the teeth, along the gumline, and likewise. Tartar, on the contrary, is a rough, porous mineral buildup on the teeth or below the gum line. Tartar is yellowish or brown, unlike plaque which is hard to see.

Ways to remove tartar at home

Although the tried and tested method of removing tartar is by visiting the dentist, some home remedies are to do the same. We have compiled a list of DIY techniques that may help in removing tartar at home.

1. Using Baking soda is an efficient way to remove tartar at home, naturally. All you need to do is mix some baking powder with water, toothpaste and salt and brush it on your teeth with a toothbrush. Rinse your mouth after brushing. This method should be done twice a week for optimum results.
2. White vinegar is another natural ingredient that may help you in removing tartar at home. The acetic acid in white vinegar fosters the de-mineralization of tooth enamel, thereby reducing tartar. The optimal way to use white vinegar is by adding two tablespoons of it in half of glass of water and using the solution as a mouthwash twice a day.
3. Activated charcoal is another potent ingredient that may remove tartar. The abrasiveness of charcoal may remove tartar from your teeth.
4. Aloe vera may taste bitter, but the plant does wonder in removing the tartar. You can make a paste by mixing a teaspoon of aloe vera gel with four teaspoons of glycerin, five teaspoons of baking soda and a drop of lemon essential oil. Scrub this paste on the teeth twice a day until the tartar is removed

Although these natural methods of removing tartar are primarily harmless, it is imperative to be cautious. Ingredients like baking soda, lemon juice, vinegar, etc., may remove tartar from teeth, but their acidic content will also wear down the precious enamel. In dental hygiene, precaution is always better than cure. Hence, it is better to take the necessary steps to prevent the buildup of tartar itself.

PFA – In case of discomfort related to teeth or gums, please visit your nearest dentist at the earliest.

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