Brushing with baking soda has been found to help scrub away plaque and bacteria. One study found that baking soda pastes were effective in removing plaque biofilm.9
It’s possible to form a paste using baking soda and water. However, this won’t have the enamel-strengthening benefits of fluoride, which is necessary for all toothpastes approved by the American Dental Association.10 Another option is to buy a toothpaste that contains baking soda and fluoride and that has the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has been found to have plaque-fighting benefits. Studies have found that aloe vera mouthwash is as effective in reducing plaque as chlorhexidine oral rinses, which are considered the « gold standard » of mouthwashes.11
Some types of herbal toothpaste and mouthwashes contain aloe vera. Check to make sure that they have the ADA Seal of Acceptance.12
White Vinegar and Water
A solution of white vinegar and water is thought to reduce plaque formation because of its antimicrobial properties. However, vinegar can also cause erosion to tooth enamel due to acidity.13 If you’re interested in using a white vinegar and water solution as a mouth rinse, check with your dentist first.
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling involves swishing edible oil (like coconut or sesame oil) around in your mouth to improve dental health. It has been found in some studies to reduce plaque formation, but more research is needed before it can be recommended as a treatment.14
Lnu R, Kaushik M, Reddy P, Udameshi P, Mehra N, Marwaha A. The effect of coconut oil pulling on streptococcus mutans count in saliva in comparison with chlorhexidine mouthwash. The Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice. 2016;17(1):38-41. doi:10.5005/jp-journals-10024-1800
Removing Tartar on Teeth
Tartar cannot be treated at home. It cannot be removed with regular teeth brushing. Only a dentist can remove tartar. Treatment for tartar involves a visit to the dentist and a professional oral cleaning.15
At a dentist visit, the dentist or hygienist will scrape off plaque and tartar. They may also suggest other treatment options.
Prevention
During your regular check-up, your dentist may recommend other treatments to prevent plaque buildup and tartar. Dental sealants and fluoride treatments are two common options to protect your teeth.
Dental Sealants
Sealants are a painted-on plastic coating applied to the areas of the teeth involved in chewing. Sealants are often applied on the molars and premolars.
The liquid seal is applied to the teeth where it covers the grooves in each tooth. It is then “cured” or hardened using a special kind of light. This seal protects the enamel of the teeth from bacteria and food.16
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay by building the resistance of the teeth against acid. A fluoride treatment may also reverse early decay in the teeth.17
Healthy Lifestyle
Beside brushing and flossing, other healthy dental habits include:
Use mouthwash.
Eat a healthy diet. Limit starchy and sugary foods and drinks like soda and white bread, and choose fruits and vegetables and healthy snacks.
Visit the dentist. Most people should see the dentist for a checkup once or twice a year, but some people will need more visits. Even if you don’t have symptoms, you should visit the dentist. A dentist will help find dental-related problems early, when treatment is simpler and often more affordable. A dentist can also identify other conditions or diseases that show symptoms in the mouth.5
If it’s not possible to brush your teeth soon after drinking or eating, chewing a sugarless gum may help prevent plaque. Look for a gum that has the seal of the American Dental Association (ADA).
Complications
When plaque builds up, it can wear away the enamel of your teeth. Complications of plaque and tartar buildup include:
Cavities
Gingivitis (the earliest stage of gum disease)
Periodontal (gum) disease (an infection of the gums and tissue that hold the teeth in place)2
Summary
Plaque forms as a reaction between bacteria in the mouth, acid, sugars, and starches found in food. Plaque forms a sticky film on the teeth and should be removed through regular teeth brushing and flossing. If not removed properly, plaque will harden into tartar. Tartar can only be removed by a dentist.
Both plaque and tartar can be prevented with good oral hygiene. If you have any concerns about your teeth or oral health, you should speak with your dentist.
