Maintaining good oral health is important for overall health and well-being. Tartar is a common dental problem that affects many people. Tartar is a hardened plaque that forms on teeth and can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health issues. Many people wonder if using mouthwash can help remove tartar. In this article, we will discuss the formation of tartar, how mouthwash works, and if it can effectively remove tartar.
Mouthwash cannot be used to remove tartar, however, mouthwash can be used to mitigate the development of calculus buildup.
Understanding Tartar Formation
Tartar is a yellow or brown-colored deposit that forms on teeth when plaque hardens due to mineral buildup. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. When plaque is not removed by brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which is much harder to remove.
Risk factors for tartar formation include poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, dry mouth, and certain medications. It is important to brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup and tartar formation.
How Mouthwash Works
Mouthwash is an oral care product that can help prevent and control dental issues. Mouthwash is available in different types, including antibacterial, fluoride, and tartar control. Mouthwash contains active ingredients that can help reduce plaque buildup and prevent gum disease.
Antibacterial mouthwash contains ingredients like chlorhexidine, which can kill bacteria that cause gum disease and tooth decay. Fluoride mouthwash contains fluoride, which can strengthen teeth and prevent tooth decay. Tartar control mouthwash contains ingredients like zinc chloride or pyrophosphate, which can prevent the buildup of tartar on teeth.
Can Mouthwash Remove Tartar?
Tartar is a hardened deposit that cannot be removed by brushing or flossing alone. While mouthwash can help prevent tartar formation, it cannot remove existing tartar. The only way to remove tartar is through professional dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), regular use of tartar control mouthwash can help prevent the buildup of tartar on teeth. However, once tartar has formed, mouthwash cannot remove it. Tartar removal requires professional dental cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist.
Other Tartar Removal Methods
Professional dental cleaning is the most effective way to remove tartar. During dental cleaning, a dentist or dental hygienist will use special tools to remove tartar from teeth. The process can take between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the amount of tartar buildup.
Home remedies for tartar removal include oil pulling, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide. However, these methods are not as effective as professional dental cleaning and can even damage tooth enamel if used incorrectly.
Choosing the Right Mouthwash for Tartar Prevention
When selecting a mouthwash for tartar prevention, it is important to consider the active ingredients. Tartar control mouthwash is the most effective type of mouthwash for preventing tartar buildup. Look for mouthwash that contains zinc chloride or pyrophosphate, which are proven to prevent tartar formation.
It is also important to look for mouthwash that is approved by the ADA. Mouthwash that carries the ADA Seal of Acceptance has been scientifically tested and proven to be safe and effective.
Conclusion
Tartar formation is a common dental problem that can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. While mouthwash can help prevent the buildup of tartar on teeth, it cannot remove existing tartar. The only way to remove tartar is through professional dental cleaning.
To prevent tartar formation, it is important to brush and floss regularly and use tartar control mouthwash with active ingredients like zinc chloride or pyrophosphate. Additionally, choosing a mouthwash that is approved by the ADA can ensure its safety and effectiveness.
In conclusion, while mouthwash can be an effective tool in preventing tartar formation, it cannot remove existing tartar. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, along with the use of tartar control mouthwash, can help maintain good oral health and prevent tartar buildup. It is important to consult with a dental professional for proper tartar removal and prevention techniques.
Sources:
“Tartar (Dental Calculus).” American Dental Association. https://www.ada.org/~/media/ADA/Publications/Files/patient_32.ashx
“Plaque and Tartar Control.” American Dental Association. https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/plaque-and-tartar-control
“Mouthwash: All You Need to Know.” Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324872
“Tartar Control Toothpaste and Mouthwash.” Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/tartar-control-toothpaste-and-mouthwash
“The Effectiveness of Tartar Control Toothpaste and Mouthwash.” Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/tartar-control-toothpaste-and-mouthwash-effectiveness
