9 Natural Ways to Remove Plaque & Tartar Buildup
Plaque and tartar are two of the most common dental problems that affect millions of people worldwide. While regular brushing and flossing are essential, sometimes these methods alone aren’t enough. Fortunately, there are natural remedies that can help remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup—without harsh chemicals or expensive dental treatments.
Here are 9 effective natural methods to keep your teeth clean and your smile healthy:
1. Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)
Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that can help scrub away plaque without damaging enamel. It also neutralizes acids in the mouth, reducing bacteria growth.
How to use: Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of water to form a paste. Brush your teeth with this paste 2–3 times a week.
2. Oil PullingThis ancient Ayurvedic practice involves swishing oil (typically coconut oil) in your mouth to remove bacteria and promote oral hygiene.
How to use: Swish 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 15–20 minutes daily before brushing. Spit it out—never swallow it.
3. White Vinegar
White vinegar contains acetic acid, which has antibacterial properties and helps prevent the buildup of plaque.
How to use: Mix 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, 1 tablespoon of salt, and half a cup of warm water. Use it as a mouth rinse once or twice a week.
4. Aloe Vera and Glycerin Paste
Aloe vera is known for its antibacterial and healing properties. When combined with glycerin, it forms a natural plaque-fighting toothpaste.
How to use: Mix one cup of water, half a cup of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of aloe vera gel, and 10 drops of lemon essential oil with 4 teaspoons of vegetable glycerin. Brush with this paste a few times a week.
5. Orange Peel RubThe vitamin C and antimicrobial properties in orange peels help fight plaque-forming microbes and whiten teeth naturally.
How to use: Rub the inside of a fresh orange peel directly on your teeth before bed. Leave it on overnight and rinse in the morning.
6. Cloves or Clove Oil
Cloves have strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. They’ve been used for centuries for oral care and to relieve toothaches.
How to use: Chew on a clove or apply a drop of clove oil on your teeth and gums. Do this once daily.
7. Guava Leaves
Guava leaves contain powerful anti-plaque agents that can reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
How to use: Chew fresh guava leaves or use crushed leaves to make a mouth rinse by boiling them in water.
8. Eating Raw Fruits and Vegetables
Crunchy fruits and veggies like apples, carrots, and celery naturally clean the teeth and stimulate saliva production, which helps wash away food particles.
Tip: Include more raw produce in your daily diet as a healthy, natural toothbrush.
9. Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash (Diluted)Hydrogen peroxide has natural whitening and antibacterial properties.
How to use: Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water. Swish in your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit and rinse with water.
Final Thoughts
While these natural remedies can support oral hygiene, they shouldn’t replace regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. Using these methods consistently can help reduce plaque and prevent tartar buildup—leading to a cleaner, healthier smile.
A natural routine today can save you from dental problems tomorrow.