A layer of bacteria, called plaque, forms on the teeth before and after brushing. When plaque hardens, it turns into tartar. Tartar is difficult to remove and can contribute to gum disease. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings can prevent tartar deposits. For children younger than 3 years, parents and caregivers should begin brushing children’s teeth as soon as they begin to come into the mouth by using a fluoride toothpaste in an amount no more than a smear or the size of a grain of rice.

Medjedovic E, Medjedovic S, Deljo D, Sukalo A. Impact of fluoride on dental health quality. Mater Sociomed. 2015;27(6):395-398. doi:10.5455/msm.2015.27.395-398 Toothpaste is available in paste or gel. Despite the many types of toothpaste, there are some ingredients common to most varieties. These include:

What Are the Benefits of a Tartar Control Toothpaste?

You should also be careful when purchasing certain types of herbal toothpastes. It should not contain dyes, cinnamon, or any other untested ingredients. How Much Toothpaste Should You Use? Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) is a synthetic detergent widely used in toothpastes and also is found in shampoos, cosmetics and laundry detergents. It also is a standard detergent used to test skin irritation. SLS affects the barrier function of skin by enhancing permeability. Dental researchers have now linked SLS to increased gingival blood flow as well as mucosal irritations. Experts credit the fluoride in toothpaste and drinking water with the significant reduction in dental cavities over the past few decades. Numerous studies confirm that fluoride is a safe and effective treatment.

One study found that those who used a water flosser plus manual toothbrush had a 74 percent reduction in whole-mouth plaque compared to 58 percent for those who used a manual toothbrush and string floss. Mouthwash However, you may find that tartar is a lot more stubborn than it seems. In this case, a dentist or a dental hygienist needs to remove it. Toothpaste with baking soda. Because baking soda is slightly abrasive, studies show that toothpastes with this ingredient can better remove plaque than toothpastes without it. Left untreated, what happens underneath that hard substance can cause serious damage to your teeth... Why Is Tartar Dangerous?

Irritant contact reactions to oral hygiene products

Tartar appears as rough, yellowish deposits along the gumline, which might cause you to raise a cosmetic complaint or two. However — more importantly — tartar can form both above and below the gumline as well as between your teeth. This puts you at risk of periodontal disease. The first step you need to take when you notice tartar on your teeth is to change your oral health care routine. Instead of brushing once a day, you need to brush your teeth twice a day to prevent further buildup. The quantity of toothpaste on your toothbrush for effective cleaning is probably less than you’re using now. Use no more than a pea-sized dab of toothpaste. This size is enough to form enough foam that will cover all your teeth. Kids below six years should use a minimal amount of toothpaste when brushing – about the size of a grain of rice.