What is Tartar?

Regardless of how much you take care of your teeth, you are always going to have some levels of bacteria. This small amount of bacteria mixes with pieces of food and sugar and forms into plaque. At this stage, it is your last chance at home to save your teeth and gums.


If you don’t floss followed by brushing effectively and consistently, the plaque becomes tartar. Tartar forms down below the gum line. It is rough-edged and porous, aggravating the gums causing them to recede and eventually causing gum disease. Tartar must be removed at our office with special tools.  

Stop Tartar Build up by Flossing

The best way to start your oral routine is with flossing. Flossing is also the only way to reach plaque because the toothbrush can’t reach below the gum line. We recommend the floss pics that look like bent letter Y. This gives a better one-handed mobility. Remember to go between each crack. One poor habit may people practice is only rubbing the floss on one side of the tooth when it’s in.


Be sure to slowly travel up and down into both sides gum pocket. Follow up with brushing with an electric brush for two minutes. Break the habit of rinsing with water, it washes fluoride out of your mouth. Instead, rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash.


Following these tips will put you on track for successful oral care and a tartar free mouth. For any questions or concerns, call us today. We are here to assist with your oral health care.