The Tartar Takedown: 7 Natural Home Remedies for Your Teeth

Dental tartar, also known as calculus, is the hard, yellowish buildup on your teeth. It’s caused when plaque isn’t removed. While a dentist is the best way to get rid of it, some home remedies can help prevent its formation and reduce mild buildup. Remember, these are not a substitute for professional cleanings!

Your Home Arsenal Against Tartar

Here’s how you can use everyday items to fight tartar.

Baking Soda: Baking soda is a gentle abrasive. It can help scrub away plaque before it hardens. Mix a little with water to form a paste. Gently brush your teeth with it a few times a week. Be careful not to brush too hard. This can damage your enamel.
Oil Pulling: This is an ancient practice. Swish a tablespoon of oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes. The oil is believed to “pull” bacteria from your mouth. This can reduce plaque and prevent tartar. Always spit the oil into the trash, not the sink.
Orange Peel: The inside of an orange peel has Vitamin C. It also has antimicrobial properties. These can help break down plaque and tartar. Gently rub the inside of a fresh orange peel directly on your teeth for a few minutes.
White Vinegar Rinse: White vinegar contains acetic acid. This can help soften tartar. Mix two teaspoons of white vinegar with a cup of warm water and a pinch of salt. Gargle with this solution once a day. Always rinse with plain water afterward. This protects your enamel.
Eat Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables: Foods like apples and carrots act as natural brushes. Chewing them stimulates saliva production. Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria. The fibrous nature of these foods scrubs your teeth.
Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. You can create a paste by mixing aloe vera gel with a small amount of baking soda and glycerin. Apply it to your teeth and rinse after a few minutes. This can kill bacteria and reduce gum inflammation.
Chew Sesame Seeds: Chewing a handful of sesame seeds acts as a gentle abrasive. Chew them until they form a paste. Use a dry toothbrush to brush your teeth with the mixture. The seeds help remove plaque and polish your tooth surface.

Beyond Remedies: Your Best Defense 🛡️

The best way to fight tartar is through prevention. This means a diligent oral hygiene routine.

Practice	Why it’s Important
Brush Properly	Brush twice a day for two minutes each time. Focus on the gumline.
Floss Daily	Flossing removes plaque and food particles your toothbrush can’t reach.
Regular Dental Checkups	A professional cleaning is the only way to effectively remove hardened tartar.

Don’t let tartar dull your smile. By using these simple home remedies and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can keep your teeth clean and healthy.