Tartar Under Gums: Hidden Dangers Explained

Tartar under gums is more serious than visible surface buildup. Unlike deposits you can see near the gumline, subgingival tartar hides below the gum tissue. Because it stays out of sight, many people do not notice it until symptoms appear.

Tartar under gums forms when plaque spreads below the gumline and hardens there. Over time, this hardened layer traps bacteria deep inside gum pockets. As a result, inflammation becomes chronic and harder to control.

In this guide, you will learn what subgingival tartar is, why it is dangerous, and how to remove tartar under gums safely.

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What Is Subgingival Tartar?

Subgingival tartar means hardened plaque located below the gumline. “Subgingival” simply means under the gums.

Above the gumline, tartar looks yellow or brown. Below the gumline, it often appears darker because it mixes with blood pigments and inflamed tissue fluids.

This hidden deposit:

• attaches firmly to tooth roots

• irritates soft tissue

• traps aggressive bacteria

• deepens gum pockets

Because it sits below the surface, brushing cannot reach it.

How Tartar Below Gumline Forms

The process begins with plaque at the gum edge. If plaque remains undisturbed, inflammation develops. Gums swell slightly and create small pockets.

Inside those pockets:

1. Bacteria multiply.

2. Oxygen levels drop.

3. Plaque thickens.

4. Minerals harden the deposit.

5. Tartar forms below the gumline.

Meanwhile, the rough surface attracts more bacteria. Therefore the infection cycle continues.

Without intervention, pockets deepen over time.

Why Tartar Under Gums Is Dangerous

Tartar under gums causes more damage than surface buildup. That is because it directly affects the attachment between teeth and bone.

Major risks include:

• chronic gum inflammation

• persistent bleeding

• bad breath

• gum recession

• bone loss

• loose teeth

Subgingival tartar supports bacteria that release toxins. These toxins break down tissue slowly. As a result, the foundation of the tooth weakens.

Early treatment prevents long-term damage.

Signs You May Have Tartar Under Gums

Since subgingival tartar is hidden, symptoms become important warning signals.

Watch for:

• gums that bleed easily

• swollen or tender gums

• persistent bad breath

• gum recession

• sensitivity near roots

• teeth that feel slightly loose

Sometimes pain is minimal at first. Therefore bleeding gums should never be ignored.

If symptoms persist despite brushing, deeper buildup may exist.

Can You Remove Tartar Under Gums at Home?

Remove tartar under gums safely requires professional care in most cases. Home brushing cannot reach deep pockets.

Trying to scrape under the gumline with sharp objects can cause:

• tissue injury

• infection

• root damage

• increased recession

Therefore home removal of subgingival tartar is not recommended.

However, you can slow progression with better daily plaque control above the gumline.

How Dentists Remove Subgingival Tartar

Professional removal involves scaling and sometimes root planing.

Scaling

Dentists use ultrasonic and manual instruments to break hardened deposits. These tools reach below the gumline safely.

Root Planing

If buildup is deeper, the dentist smooths the root surface. A smooth root reduces bacterial attachment. As a result, gums can reattach more easily.

In some cases, local anesthesia improves comfort during deeper cleaning.

After treatment, gums often heal within days or weeks.

Preventing Tartar Below the Gumline

Prevention focuses on stopping plaque before it spreads under the gums.

Clean the Gumline Daily

Angle the brush toward the gum edge. Use gentle circular motions.

Floss Consistently

Floss removes plaque between teeth and just below the gum margin.

Avoid Skipping Night Brushing

Bacteria multiply faster during sleep. Night cleaning reduces risk.

Schedule Regular Dental Exams

Routine checkups detect early pocket formation before deep tartar develops.

Use Targeted Plaque Disruption Tools

Precision cleaning devices help reduce plaque survival near the gumline. As a result, plaque is less likely to move below the gums.

Daily discipline protects long-term gum health.

What Happens If It Is Left Untreated?

If tartar under gums remains untreated, pockets deepen. Bone supporting the teeth may begin to shrink. Over time, teeth can loosen.

Advanced gum disease can affect overall health. Chronic inflammation may contribute to systemic conditions.

Therefore early removal protects both oral and general wellness.

Do not wait for severe pain before seeking care.

Recovery After Subgingival Tartar Removal

After scaling, gums may feel tender for a few days. Mild sensitivity is common. However, inflammation usually decreases quickly.

To support healing:

• brush gently

• avoid aggressive flossing for a few days

• rinse with warm salt water if recommended

• follow your dentist’s care instructions

As gums heal, bleeding should reduce. Breath freshness often improves as bacteria decline.

FAQ

What is the difference between tartar above and below gums?

Above-gum tartar is visible. Below-gum tartar hides in pockets and is more dangerous.

Can tartar under gums cause bone loss?

Yes. Chronic infection can weaken the bone supporting teeth.

Is removal painful?

Most procedures are comfortable. Dentists may use local anesthesia if needed.

How often should I check for gum pockets?

Routine dental exams every six months help detect early changes.