Summary
More discreet than supragingival , but no less restrictive, subgingival tartar is also entitled to its dedicated article. By growing below the gums, it makes its detection and elimination more complex, and can cause inflammation and more serious complications . So how is it formed? Can we avoid it? And above all, how to eliminate it effectively? Let’s dig into the subject!
What is subgingival tartar?
Definition
It refers to an accumulation of mineralized dental plaques, which develops under the gums, on the surface of the tooth roots. Unlike the one visible on the teeth, this one is hidden behind the gum line , making it more difficult to spot and eliminate. Over time, it hardens and becomes a real shelter for bacteria, thus promoting inflammation of the gums and the development of periodontal disease .
What are the causes of subgingival tartar?
This type of tartar forms from dental plaque , a small sticky deposit made up of microbes, saliva and food remains. Several factors can promote its appearance:
Questionable oral hygiene : brushing too quickly or forgetting to floss encourages the accumulation of plaque, and therefore the transformation into tartar.
Excessive production of dental plaque : some people have saliva richer in minerals, which can accelerate its formation.
Smoking : Cigarette smoke can weaken the gums, making it easier to accumulate.
An unbalanced diet : eating too much sugar and acidic foods can encourage bacterial proliferation and therefore the formation of plaque.
Genetic predispositions : some people are also more prone to periodontal disease due to their genetic heritage.
Differences with supragingival tartar
Tartar is easily spotted and removed during simple scaling at the dentist. On the other hand, subgingival tartar is a little trickier and sneaks beneath the gum line. Ultimately, it can cause inflammation and requires deep scaling to be properly eliminated.
Here are the differences in more detail:
Kind | Location | Appearance | Consequences |
Supragingival | Above the gum, visible on the teeth | Yellowish-white, rough | Bad breath, yellowing of teeth |
Subgingival | Below the gum, not visible | Brown-black, hard | Gum inflammation, periodontal disease, tooth loss 😱 |
In short: subgingival tartar is more annoying because it can directly affect the tissues that support our teeth . This is why it is crucial to have effective prevention and to consult a dentist regularly! 😊
Why does tartar form under the gums?
It does not form overnight. It is the result of a gradual accumulation of dental plaque which eventually transforms and slides below the gum line. Several factors can be the cause.
Poor oral hygiene
This is the main reason! Insufficient or poorly done brushing allows dental plaque to accumulate on the teeth and behind the gums. Over time, this plaque hardens and becomes tartar.
Common errors :
Not brushing your teeth after every meal,
Neglecting the use of dental floss or interdental brushes ,
Brushing your teeth too quickly or with incorrect technique.
💡 Good habit : as recommended by the UFSBD , opt for careful brushing for 2 minutes, at least twice a day, with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. And above all, don't forget to floss! Using an electric toothbrush is even preferable.
Saliva problems
Saliva is crucial for removing food residue and neutralizing acids produced by bacteria. When it is insufficient or of poor quality, dental plaque accumulates more easily and mineralizes.
The causes of insufficient saliva:
Lack of hydration,
Certain medications (such as antidepressants, antihistamines, etc.),
Stress or anxiety,
Diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome.
💡 Good habit : drink enough throughout the day, chew sugar-free gum and avoid drinks that are too sweet or acidic.
Smoking and diet
What we consume directly influences the condition of our mouth. Tobacco is harmful because it reduces blood circulation in the gums , reduces saliva production and facilitates the adhesion of bacteria to the teeth. Consequence? More plaque, more tartar and an increased risk of periodontal disease .
As for an unbalanced diet, it can encourage its appearance. Foods high in sugars and starches feed the microbes that cause plaque.
The worst enemies of your gums :
Sodas and sugary drinks,
Sweets and pastries,
Alcohol.
💡 Good habit : favor a diet rich in crunchy fruits and vegetables (like apples and carrots 🥕), which help to naturally clean teeth. Also think about foods rich in calcium and vitamins (cheese, yogurt, almonds, etc.) to strengthen tooth enamel .
Genetic factors
Some people are naturally more likely to have gum problems because of their genetics. Yes, the composition of our saliva, the strength of our dental enamel and the resistance of our gums can be influenced by our genes.
What has an impact :
Saliva rich in minerals,
Increased susceptibility to gum infections,
A tendency to periodontal disease.
💡 Good habit : if your family has a history of periodontal disease, be vigilant and do not hesitate to consult your dentist regularly.
How to recognize the presence of subgingival tartar?
Since it grows below the gum line, it can go unnoticed for a while…until symptoms appear. Here's how to identify its presence and prevent complications.
Visible signs
Even if he hides, he can leave some clues:
Gums that are a little red , swollen or sensitive,
A little bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth,
Not very fresh breath that persists (halitosis),
Teeth that seem a little longer (gingival recession),
Light brownish or black deposits at the base of the teeth
Dental examination
This is undoubtedly the most reliable method for detecting it. Because although invisible to the naked eye, only a dentist can confirm its presence through a detailed examination. The exam takes place as follows:
Periodontal probing : the dentist uses a fine probe to assess the depth of the gingival pockets (spaces between the tooth and the gums). If these pockets exceed 3 mm, there is a greater risk.
Dental x-ray : in some cases, an x-ray can identify tartar deposits located deep down, near the roots of the teeth.
Whatever happens, even in the absence of pain, it is advisable to have a dental check-up every 6 months to avoid its accumulation.
Symptoms of periodontal disease
If this tartar is not removed, it can cause inflammation of the gums which, over time, can develop into periodontal disease.
The first phase is gingivitis . It is detected by red and swollen gums , frequent bleeding when brushing, as well as bad breath . But rest assured, gingivitis is reversible if treated quickly with good scaling and better oral hygiene.
If gingivitis is not treated, the second phase is periodontitis . It manifests itself by deterioration of the bone and tissues that support the tooth, the formation of deep periodontal pockets, mobility of the teeth, and even the risk of tooth loss. 😨
While periodontitis cannot be completely cured, it can be stabilized with appropriate treatment. This is why it is important to detect tartar before it causes too much damage!
Also, a 2021 clinical study explored how soft tissues behave in the short term after using different curettes for subgingival curettage.
Subgingival scaling: why and how is it carried out?
When tartar sets in, simple brushing is no longer enough to get rid of it. This is where descaling comes into play! This treatment, carried out by a dentist or periodontist, allows these deposits to be removed and to avoid the minor problems that could follow.
What is subgingival scaling?
Also called periodontal curettage, it is a thorough cleaning that removes tartar accumulated below the gums and around the roots of the teeth. Unlike traditional scaling which deals with what is visible on the surface, this procedure addresses hidden areas where bacteria can cause inflammation and periodontal disease.
Why resort to descaling?
For several reasons:
Prevent periodontitis : by removing tartar, we prevent the inflammation from becoming more serious periodontal disease.
Maintain good dental health : Healthy gums help keep your teeth longer and prevent them from shifting or falling out.
Please note that this scaling is often recommended when periodontal pockets of more than 3 mm are discovered.
The procedure for subgingival scaling
There are therefore several distinct phases:
Local anesthesia : to avoid any pain, the dentist administers a local anesthetic to the affected area.
Curettage : using specific tools (ultrasound or curettes), it removes the tartar located behind the gums.
Root planing : it polishes the surface of tooth roots to prevent tartar reaccumulation and promote gum healing.
Rinsing and follow-up : an antiseptic rinse is carried out, and advice is provided to prevent any recurrence.
Depending on the condition of your gums, treatment may require one or more sessions.
The advantages of subgingival scaling
Improved gum health : they regain their natural color and stop bleeding.
Prevention of periodontal disease : this deep cleaning stops the progression of gingivitis and prevents periodontitis.
Prevention of tooth loss : By eliminating bacteria, we prevent the destruction of the tissues supporting the teeth.
The disadvantages of subgingival scaling
Discomfort after the operation : following the procedure, it is common to feel a slight sensitivity or discomfort in the gums.
Risk of tooth sensitivity : teeth may become more reactive to cold or heat for a few days.
Note that these side effects are temporary and can be reduced with a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.
Frequently asked questions about subgingival calculus and its treatment
How to remove subgingival tartar?
It cannot be removed by simple brushing. Only a dentist is able to eliminate it with dedicated scaling. This process uses specific instruments (ultrasound, curettes) to remove hidden tartar and avoid complications.
Does scaling hurt?
The procedure is usually painless thanks to the frequent application of local anesthesia. After the procedure, mild sensitivity may occur, but this fades within a few days. Using toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help alleviate this discomfort.
Why does tartar form under the gums?
It forms when dental plaque accumulates and transforms in the absence of good brushing. Several elements can promote this formation: imperfect oral hygiene, smoking, a sugary diet, saliva rich in minerals, even genetic factors.
How do you know if you have subgingival tartar?
If you notice red, swollen or easily bleeding gums, bad breath that persists, or even a slight receding of the gums, it might be time to see your dentist. He is best placed to check all of this during an examination and offer you the treatment that will suit you best.
Conclusion
This type of tartar represents a real danger for the health of our gums. Invisible and sneaky, it can cause inflammation, gum recession and, in the long term, periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss. Fortunately, this problem is not inevitable! By adopting good oral hygiene and making regular visits to the dentist, it is possible to prevent its accumulation.
