Brush teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
Use tartar-control toothpaste labeled for plaque and tartar removal
Use an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor
Clean along the gumline gently with small circular motions
Use interdental brushes or floss picks for between-teeth cleaning
Consider an OTC tartar scraper only if you’re trained and use it carefully
Avoid digging or scraping aggressively with metal tools
Schedule a professional dental cleaning (scaling) to remove existing tartar
Ask about periodontal maintenance if you have gum disease or frequent tartar buildup
If tartar is widespread or gums bleed, book a dental visit soon
Maintain regular dental checkups every 6 months (or as advised)
Limit foods and drinks that promote plaque (sugary snacks, frequent snacking, sugary drinks)
Drink water after meals and chew sugar-free gum with xylitol if appropriate
Don’t rely on home remedies (e.g., vinegar, baking soda pastes, charcoal) for tartar removal
Seek dental care before trying any strong acids or abrasive products