You probably have some tartar on your teeth right now, but you can get rid of it with the help of a few simple changes to your srp dental care routine. The first step in getting rid of tartar on your teeth is to brush and floss at least twice a day, using tools that can gently remove both the tartar and the plaque buildup underneath it. You should also visit the dentist at least once every six months to have any cavities filled and have your overall oral health assessed.
Brush at least twice a day
Brushing your teeth twice a day is one of the best ways to maintain good oral health and avoid cavities. This helps ensure that you’re removing plaque, bacteria, and food particles from your teeth so they don’t harden into tartar. If you have existing tartar buildup, or if you have dental fillings or other restorations that could be damaged by brushing vigorously (like a crown), visit your dentist for a professional cleaning. While it can be tempting to just rub an abrasive denture cleaner on your teeth at home, try using baking soda and water instead—it can help reduce tartar buildup without damaging surfaces like crowns.
And always make sure you brush for at least two minutes every time! That’s how long it takes to remove all plaque and kill most harmful bacteria. It’s okay if you need to break up your routine with flossing once in a while—just keep track of how long you spend on each aspect so you aren't taking too much time away from either activity. You should floss once a day too; 20 seconds per tooth usually does the trick. Finally, remember: a little bi-annual mouthwash won't hurt either! While we often turn toward mouthwash after eating something starchy or sugary as an extra cleaning step, regular swishing with Listerine or Scope will keep germs out and promote fresh breath even when we aren't eating snacks.
Use whitening toothpaste
There are a lot of people who want whiter teeth and most dentists will tell you that one way to get them is through tooth whitening. But, did you know that a product that many people already have in their cabinets can do just as good a job? If you’re looking for an at-home tooth whitener, go out and buy some baking soda. Mix it with either hydrogen peroxide or lemon juice for about ten minutes until it creates foam. Then, brush your teeth as usual and let it sit in your mouth for five minutes before rinsing with water.
Floss your teeth once daily
This is an essential step for preventing tartar buildup. Flossing is beneficial for removing plaque from your teeth and also helps get rid of harmful bacteria that can cause bad breath. River Oaks Dental recommends flossing once daily, but at least twice a week would be even better! If you find it difficult to remember, try carrying dental floss with you or keeping a piece by your toothbrush so it’s readily available. When you do floss, make sure you are going in between each tooth—it’s easy to forget those back teeth if you don’t do it regularly!
See your dentist regularly
As a kid, you probably went to your dentist every six months or so. That's too bad—your oral health requires consistent attention. You need to see your dentist twice a year if you have healthy teeth and gums, but if you have tartar buildup, you may need more frequent cleanings. Why? The narrow channel between your teeth (called biological width) constricts as tartar builds up, making it harder for dental hygienists to clean off each tooth surface. This slows down prevention efforts because it makes it harder for dental professionals like yourself and us.
Learn how to use tartar trays
If you are serious about removing tartar from your teeth, invest in a set of SRP or biological width trays. Each time you floss and brush your teeth, try using tartar trays for five minutes. You should also use them after eating certain foods that cause staining, like berries or coffee. Make sure to give yourself a few days in between each use so that your mouth has time to recover.
Ask about professional cleaning and dental sealants
A biological width is used for planning for dental sealants. A biological width is used for a cleaning which includes removing calculus from around teeth. Dental sealants are an essential part of cavity prevention and treatment as well as bite adjustments. River Oaks Dental has excellent payment plans that are clear, concise, and easy to understand. If you have any further questions please feel free to ask them in a comment below! Enjoy your day! River Oaks Dental Staff.
