Tartar (also called calculus) is hardened plaque — and it’s behind a lot of searches for how to scrape it off at home. Here’s what’s safe and what isn’t.
Soft plaque, the sticky film that forms daily, you can and should manage at home: brush twice a day, floss daily, and consider an electric toothbrush and an antibacterial rinse. But once plaque hardens into tartar, it bonds to the tooth and below the gumline — and the DIY metal scrapers sold online can scratch your enamel, damage your gums, and cause infection. Hardened tartar can only be safely removed by a hygienist with the proper instruments.
The safest, most cost-effective approach is a regular professional cleaning, which removes tartar and helps prevent the gum disease and cavities it causes. Due for a cleaning?
Book online or call (236) 553-1197.