How to Prevent Tartar

Tartar is that hardened, yellowish substance that sticks on your teeth like cement. Once tartar forms, it’s impossible to remove at home unless you’re willing to bring in a demolition team with sanders, picks and hammer drills. That’s why it’s so important to know how to prevent tartar from building up in the first place. The number one way is to have regular dental exams in Gilbert, AZ at Kathy Jacobsen Contemporary Dentistry at least twice a year. But even then, you might be a person who needs more frequent visits. Learn more about tartar and how to prevent it.

Maintain Daily Oral Hygiene

To keep tartar at bay, you definitely need to be brushing your teeth at least twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste. Use a medium-bristled brush and focus on reaching all surfaces of your teeth. Don’t forget to floss! Flossing daily helps remove plaque from between teeth and along the gum line, where your toothbrush might not reach, which is where tartar often forms. If you only floss once a day, do it at night, just before you hit the hay.

Regular Dental Cleanings

No matter how vigilant you are with your oral care routine, professional cleanings are a must. Dentists use specialized tools to remove tartar from hard-to-reach areas, with results that you can never replicate at home. Scheduling regular cleanings every six months at a minimum can keep tartar from building up and causing further dental issues.

Use Antibacterial Mouthwash

Using an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce plaque, which in turn minimizes the risk of tartar formation. Choose a mouthwash that’s ADA-approved. Contact your dentist for recommendations.

By following these preventive steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of tartar buildup and maintain better oral health. Contact your Gilbert, AZ dentist today to get started and book your dental exam.