Last Updated on March 17, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that a teeth whitening foaming toothpaste can remove tartar. We fact-checked and found this claim to be Mostly False.
The Claim
A Facebook post shares an image which is promoting a teeth-whitening foaming toothpaste which claims that it can remove plaque and tartar.
Fact Check
What is tartar?
Calculus, also referred to as tartar, is essentially an accumulation of plaque and minerals from the saliva that solidifies. Tartar is formed by the precipitation of calcium phosphate on dental plaque, particularly in an alkaline environment. The surface of teeth gets covered in tooth tartar, which in severe cases can be seen below the gum line. The tartar covers the teeth like a crust. Due to its high porosity, it is vulnerable to stains from food and drinks.
Is it advisable to get rid of dental tartar at home?
No, definitely not. Plaque and tartar pose a significant risk to the health of your teeth. The removal of this dental tartar is crucial because its persistence can worsen gum disease, damage enamel, and cause bad breath. Unfortunately, it is unlikely that a toothbrush and floss will be able to remove plaque once it has hardened into tartar. It is not a good idea to use at-home tools to scrape tartar off of yourself.
This is due to the possibility of damaging one’s smile through improper use of electric tartar removal devices, which necessitates special training. If misused, they might cause gum damage and infection. Furthermore, harsh devices can wear down the enamel on your teeth, causing sensitivity and caries. Remember that once lost, the enamel—the outer, protective layer of teeth—cannot be replaced.
Can tartar be removed using foaming agents?
Not exactly. While there are many products on the market that claim to help remove tartar, most dental professionals agree that the only effective way to remove tartar is through a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist.
Foaming agents such as toothpaste, mouthwash, and other oral care products can help to prevent tartar buildup by reducing the amount of plaque on teeth. However, once tartar has formed, it cannot be removed by foaming agents alone. Tartar is too hard and firmly attached to teeth to be removed by brushing or other at-home methods.
If you have tartar buildup on your teeth, it’s important to visit your dentist or dental hygienist for a professional cleaning. During a cleaning procedure or scaling, they will use special tools to gently scrape away the tartar from your teeth, leaving them clean and healthy. Regular cleanings can help to prevent tartar buildup and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
How can tartar and plaque buildup be prevented at home?
Plaque can quickly calcify into tartar. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for preventing the development of dental tartar and plaque. The best way to control plaque is to brush your teeth for two minutes at a time, twice daily, with a prescription toothpaste. Brushing should be done at a 45-degree angle with a soft bristle brush so that the bristles can reach the areas between the teeth and gums. Along with brushing, eating fresh fruits and vegetables and using alcohol-free mouthwashes can also help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
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