Why Tartar Builds Up (and How to Reduce It Naturally)
Tartar can develop for several reasons, but one of the most common is inconsistent or poor oral hygiene. When daily cleaning is not thorough, dental plaque stays on the teeth long enough to harden. A diet that regularly includes high-salt foods may also create conditions that make tartar more likely to form.
In this guide, you’ll find practical home approaches that may help reduce tartar buildup and support a brighter-looking smile, without costly treatments.
What Is Tartar, and Why Does It Form on Teeth?
Tartar (also called dental calculus) is plaque that has hardened on the teeth. Over time, it can accumulate not only on the tooth surface but also below the gumline, which may contribute to gum irritation and other periodontal concerns.
The Two Main Types of Tartar
- Supragingival tartar: forms above the gums, on the visible surfaces of the teeth.
- Subgingival tartar: forms below the gumline, and can contribute to the development of periodontal pockets.
How to Remove Tartar from Teeth with Home Remedies
Home care can be helpful for improving overall cleanliness and limiting future tartar formation. These options focus on supporting oral hygiene and reducing bacteria in the mouth.
1) Strengthen Your Daily Oral Hygiene Routine
The most effective long-term strategy is maintaining consistent, proper oral care, including:
- Brush after meals using a medium-bristle toothbrush and a good-quality toothpaste.
- Floss at least once per day (yes, even if you brush well).
- Use mouthwash to help reduce bacteria in areas your brush may miss.
Mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing and flossing, but it can help rinse away leftover debris and support fresher breath. - Consider a dental irrigator (water flosser) to clean difficult areas, including near and slightly below the gumline.
2) Baking Soda and Salt Mixture
Baking soda is widely used in home dental care because it can help break down surface buildup.
How to use it:
- Mix 2 parts baking soda with 1 part salt.
- Add a small amount of water to form a paste.
- Dip your toothbrush into the mixture and gently brush areas where tartar is noticeable.
- Rinse thoroughly afterward, ideally using a dental irrigator to remove any residue.
Important: Do not leave baking soda on the teeth. If residue remains and stays in contact with the tooth surface, it may wear down enamel over time.
3) Lemon Juice Rinse
Lemon has natural bactericidal properties. However, it is also acidic, so it must be used carefully.
How to use it:
- Mix the juice of half a lemon with about 150 ml of water.
- Swish it briefly like a mouthwash.
- Rinse well afterward with plain water.
Note: Because lemon is acidic, frequent use can contribute to enamel erosion.
4) Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
A diluted hydrogen peroxide rinse may help disinfect and reduce bacteria.
How to use it:
- Mix about 100 ml of water with 30 ml of hydrogen peroxide.
- Rinse your mouth with the mixture, then spit it out.
- Rinse thoroughly again with water when finished.
Common Causes of Tartar Buildup
Tartar accumulation can be linked to several factors, including:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Older age (tartar tends to build up more easily over time)
- Dry mouth
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Crooked or misaligned teeth (harder to clean effectively)
- Low vitamin C intake
- Unbalanced or poor nutrition
