Tartar under the gums: causes, risks and solutions
The formation of tartar under the gums, or subgingival tartar, is less common than on the tooth surface. Nevertheless, this phenomenon should be taken seriously, and requires a consultation with your dental surgeon. Depending on the case, he or she may refer you to a periodontal specialist. This term refers to the structure that supports the teeth: jawbone, ligament, cementum and gums. Studio Paro, founded in 2021 by Dr Hervé Touati in Lyon 3, brings together a team of periodontal dentists.
What is tartar? How does it form?
To understand what dental tartar is, we need to look at dental plaque. Plaque is a deposit on the surface of the teeth, made up of an accumulation of debris, bacteria and proteins. Regular, effective brushing removes much of this plaque.
However, when this plaque calcifies – i.e. solidifies – it becomes tartar. Containing particles of calcium and magnesium, this deposit is harder than plaque and must be removed to prevent the risk of cavities, gum disease and periodontitis.
We are not all equal when it comes to the development of plaque and tartar. The composition and pH of saliva, as well as certain external factors (smoking, medication, stress, diabetes…), influence tartar formation.
Why regular descaling?
In addition to tooth brushing, scaling performed by your dentist removes plaque and tartar from the entire surface of your teeth. The recommended frequency is one or two treatments a year.
This procedure also enables your dentist to spot any signs of gingivitis or periodontitis, and to detect the presence of tartar between the tooth and the gum.
How do you remove tartar from under the gums?
Known as ” subgingival calculus “, this deposit is similar to that on the surface. However, it requires prompt treatment to avoid periodontitis. Periodontitis is an often silent inflammation of the periodontium, which can have serious consequences for your health.
Fortunately, there is a non-invasive, painless and effective technique for removing tartar from under the gums. Called “lithotripsy”, this procedure uses sonic vibrations to destroy tartar. This technology is directly inspired by the technique used to remove kidney stones.
Unlike subgingival scaling, which is painful and invasive, lithotripsy does not involve the removal of gum tissue. It is performed without anesthesia, and helps to clean up periodontal pockets, which form under the gums due to an accumulation of bacteria. Prior to the treatment, the patient must carry out local home care by brushing with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and bicarbonate. Several appointments are required, supplemented by simple gestures to be performed at home.
Efficient care and a warm welcome at Studio Paro
Your oral health requires regular monitoring by a competent, attentive practitioner. At Studio Paro, a team of periodontal dentists and their assistants offer you a personalized welcome. From the first meeting to the treatment of any periodontitis, your practitioner will explain every step of the treatment and reassure you about the procedures performed. Every patient is involved in his or her own oral health care.
To find out more about dental lithotripsy, don’t hesitate to make an appointment at Studio Paro, just a stone’s throw from Part-Dieu station and the Halles Paul Bocuse.
Make an appointment