How to Prevent Tartar Build-up?

Good oral hygiene is something we should all prioritise. Not only does it help to prevent issues such as tooth decay and gum disease, but it also keeps your mouth fresh and free from plaque and tartar. Everyone develops some level of plaque throughout the day, but the key is to stop it from accumulating and hardening into tartar.

If left unchecked, tartar can lead to more serious dental problems – including infections, gum inflammation, and eventually tooth loss. So how can you avoid this? Let’s explore what tartar is, how it forms, and the best ways to keep it at bay.

What Exactly Is Tartar?

Tartar – also known as dental calculus – is a hardened layer of plaque that builds up on the surface of your teeth. It’s usually white or yellowish in appearance and forms when plaque isn’t effectively removed through brushing and flossing. Over time, this hard substance can form not just on the visible surfaces of the teeth, but also between them and along the gum line.

Tartar not only causes cosmetic concerns, but it also creates a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. This increases your risk of gum disease, cavities, and bad breath. Regular and thorough oral hygiene habits are your first line of defence.

How Does Tartar Develop?

Tartar begins as soft plaque – a sticky film of bacteria that forms after eating and drinking. When plaque isn’t removed, it reacts with minerals in your saliva and hardens into tartar. You’ll often find tartar deposits behind the lower front teeth or on the outside of upper molars, as these areas are close to salivary glands.

Consuming sugary and starchy foods can speed up this process. Items like bread, fruit juice, fizzy drinks, and milk are common culprits, as they provide the sugars and carbohydrates that oral bacteria feed on.

How to Reduce Tartar Buildup

Tartar prevention involves more than just brushing – it’s about adopting a full routine of good oral care habits. Here’s how to keep tartar under control:

1. Adopt a Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine

Brush your teeth at least twice daily and don’t forget to floss once a day. This helps remove plaque from areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Rinsing with mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria, but do this at a different time to brushing.

Consider investing in an electric toothbrush, which is often more effective at removing plaque than a manual brush. Clean between meals when possible (leave it at least 30 minutes after eating), or at least rinse your mouth with water after eating.

2. Attend Regular Dental Health Reviews

Seeing your dentist every six months is essential for spotting early signs of tartar build up and other potential issues. At Hermitage Dental Practice, we recommend attending both dental health reviews and hygiene appointments twice a year. Our hygienists are trained to professionally remove tartar and provide tailored advice on maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

3. Be Mindful of Your Diet

Limit foods and drinks that are high in sugar and starch. These substances feed the bacteria in your mouth and accelerate tartar formation. If you do consume them, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing – this gives your enamel time to recover from acid exposure. In the meantime, rinse your mouth with water to neutralise acidity.

4. Quit Smoking

Smoking is a known risk factor for tartar build-up. It affects saliva flow, damages the gums, and increases the risk of gum disease and tooth loss. If you smoke, stopping is one of the best steps you can take to protect your oral health. The NHS Smoke free service offers excellent support for those ready to quit.

Expert Dental Care at Hermitage Dental Practice

At Hermitage Dental Practice, our team of experienced dental professionals is here to support your oral health every step of the way. Whether you need a routine clean, gum disease treatment, or more advanced care, we’re here to help with friendly, expert advice and high-quality treatment.

If you have any concerns about tartar build-up or would like to book a hygiene appointment, get in touch with our team today – we’re always happy to help you achieve and maintain a healthy smile.