Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is the hardened form of dental plaque that adheres strongly to the surfaces of teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms when food particles, especially sugars, mix with saliva. If this soft film is not removed through daily brushing and flossing, it begins to calcify within 24 to 72 hours, turning into tartar. Finding tartar in a two-year-old signals an immediate need for professional dental care, as its presence creates a rough surface that traps more plaque and bacteria. This buildup accelerates the risk of gingivitis—gum inflammation—and early childhood tooth decay.
Why Home Removal is Not Advisable
Tartar bonds so firmly to the tooth enamel that regular brushing cannot remove it, making at-home removal attempts both ineffective and hazardous. Parents should avoid using sharp instruments, such as commercial dental picks or scrapers, on a toddler’s mouth. These tools can easily cause physical injury to the delicate gum tissue, potentially introducing bacteria and leading to infection. Without specialized training, there is also a risk of accidentally pushing the tartar deposits below the gumline, complicating the issue.
Even popular home remedies, such as swishing diluted vinegar or using abrasive powders, pose significant risks. The acidic properties of vinegar that might theoretically weaken tartar also demineralize the tooth enamel, increasing the likelihood of decay and sensitivity. Attempting to access and clean a two-year-old’s mouth is practically impossible without proper equipment and patient cooperation. Removing calcified plaque requires the precision and specialized instruments of a dental professional.
Professional Dental Cleaning for Toddlers
The only safe and effective way to remove tartar from a two-year-old’s teeth is through a professional cleaning performed by a pediatric dentist. The visit typically begins with a gentle visual examination, often conducted with the child sitting in a parent’s lap for security. The dentist or hygienist uses child-sized instruments, called scalers, to carefully scrape away the hardened calculus. For more extensive buildup, an electronic scaler that uses vibration and water may be employed to gently loosen the deposits.
After scaling, the dental professional polishes the teeth using a soft rubber cup and a flavored paste. This step smoothes the tooth surfaces, removing surface stains and making it more difficult for new plaque to adhere. The appointment concludes with a fluoride varnish application, which strengthens the tooth enamel and provides protection against future decay. Establishing a “dental home” with a pediatric dentist by the first birthday and maintaining regular six-month check-ups ensures continuous monitoring and early intervention.
Stopping Future Tartar Buildup
Preventing the recurrence of tartar requires diligent daily oral hygiene, with parental supervision being non-negotiable for a two-year-old. Brushing should occur twice daily, in the morning and before bed, using a soft-bristled, child-sized toothbrush. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends using a smear—roughly the size of a grain of rice—of fluoridated toothpaste. Parents must actively brush the child’s teeth, ensuring they reach all surfaces, as a toddler lacks the dexterity to clean effectively.
Dietary changes play a significant role in reducing the food sources that bacteria need to form plaque. Limiting the frequency of sugary snacks, starchy foods, and acidic drinks is important, as these fuel the plaque-forming bacteria. Parents should avoid letting the child fall asleep with a bottle containing milk, formula, or juice, as this practice causes sugars to pool around the teeth, leading to rapid decay. Encouraging water consumption throughout the day helps rinse the mouth and promotes saliva flow, which naturally cleanses the teeth. Regular dental visits allow the dentist to monitor hygiene, provide professional cleanings, and apply protective fluoride treatments.