Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hard, crusty deposit that forms on your teeth and can lead to various oral issues. Removing tartar is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing gum diseases. Here are ten steps to help remove tartar and keep your teeth clean:

1. Brush regularly: Brushing your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush will help prevent tartar buildup. Make sure to brush for at least two minutes each time and pay special attention to hard-to-reach areas.

2. Use proper brushing technique: Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and use short, gentle strokes to clean the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of your teeth.

3. Floss daily: Flossing helps dislodge food particles and plaque stuck between your teeth. Floss at least once a day before brushing to remove debris that can eventually harden into tartar.

4. Use tartar-control toothpaste: Tartar-control toothpaste contains ingredients that inhibit the formation of tartar on the tooth enamel. Switch to a toothpaste specially formulated for tartar control.

5. Rinse with an anti-bacterial mouthwash: Using an anti-bacterial mouthwash after brushing will kill any remaining bacteria in the mouth that contributes to plaque formation.

6. Watch your diet: Avoid sugary and starchy foods that provide fuel for bacteria. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products can promote oral health.

7. Drink water after meals: Drinking water after meals helps remove food debris from the mouth and prevents plaque formation.

8. Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing sugar-free gum stimulates saliva production which helps rinse away harmful bacteria responsible for causing plaque formation.

9. Stop smoking: Smoking increases the risk of tartar buildup, as well as a plethora of other oral health problems. Quitting smoking will help improve your overall oral hygiene.

10. Schedule regular dental cleanings: No matter how well you maintain your oral hygiene at home, professional dental cleanings are essential for removing stubborn tartar deposits that can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.

Following these steps will not only help remove existing tartar but also prevent new buildup. It is important to remember that maintaining good oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups are essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy throughout life.