Can Tartar Cause Tooth Pain? Risks, Gum Disease, & Treatment In Maple Grove

Tartar is hardened plaque — a rough, mineralized film that builds up on teeth. Many people ask: can tartar cause tooth pain in Maple Grove, MN? Short answer: yes. Tartar itself isn’t alive, but it traps bacteria and irritates gums. That irritation can lead to sensitivity, infection, and even abscesses that cause real pain. In this article you’ll learn how tartar leads to pain, signs to watch for, treatment options, prevention tips, and when to see a dentist in Maple Grove, MN.

Can Tartar Cause Tooth Pain in Maple Grove, MN? — The short answer

Yes — tartar can lead to tooth pain by creating an environment where bacteria damage gums and tooth roots. If tartar causes gum infection, swelling, or an abscess, you may feel constant or throbbing pain. Seek urgent care if you have severe pain, fever, or swelling that makes breathing or swallowing hard.

How tartar causes tooth pain in Maple Grove, MN

Plaque hardens into tartar and traps bacteria

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms after eating. If not removed, minerals in saliva harden plaque into tartar. Tartar sticks to teeth and holds bacteria close to the gum line, increasing inflammation and infection risk.

Gum recession and exposed roots raise sensitivity

Tartar buildup along the gum line can push gums away from teeth (recession). That can expose tooth roots, which have little protective enamel and are very sensitive to hot, cold, and pressure — causing sharp or aching pain.

Signs and symptoms that tartar may be causing your pain

Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure

If teeth hurt when you drink hot coffee, eat ice cream, or bite down, sensitivity from exposed roots or enamel erosion may be from tartar-related gum problems.

Bleeding, swollen gums, bad breath, or throbbing (possible abscess)

Red, puffy gums that bleed when you brush or floss, chronic bad breath, or a painful, swollen area with a bad taste can all signal infection driven by tartar. A throbbing tooth or facial swelling may mean an abscess — see a dentist right away.

When tartar means gum disease (gingivitis → periodontitis)

How untreated tartar advances disease

Tartar can turn simple gingivitis into periodontitis. As inflammation worsens, pockets form between teeth and gums, trapping more bacteria and accelerating damage.

Long-term risks: bone loss, loose teeth, systemic links

Left untreated, periodontitis can cause bone loss around teeth, tooth mobility, and eventual tooth loss. There are also links between severe gum disease and larger health issues like diabetes and heart disease.

Diagnosis and treatment options for tartar-related pain

Professional cleaning: scaling and polishing

A dental hygienist removes tartar with scaling instruments and polishes teeth. This often reduces inflammation and sensitivity quickly if disease is mild.

Deep cleaning, antibiotics, and when referral or extraction is needed

For deeper infection, scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) may be needed, sometimes with antibiotics. Advanced cases may require specialist referral, surgical treatment, or extraction.

Prevention: reduce tartar and lower your pain risk

Daily care: brushing, flossing, interdental tools, fluoride

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss once a day, and use interdental brushes or floss picks to remove plaque before it hardens into tartar.

Professional cleanings schedule and lifestyle tips (smoking, diet)

See your dentist every 3–6 months for cleanings based on risk. Quit smoking, limit sugary foods and acidic drinks, and stay hydrated to lower tartar buildup.

Can tartar cause tooth pain — when to see a dentist in Maple Grove, MN

If you have persistent sensitivity, bleeding gums, swelling, or throbbing pain, schedule an exam and cleaning. Weimar Family & Implant Dentistry and Dr. Richard Weimar provide comprehensive diagnosis using digital X-rays and CBCT when needed, sedation options for anxious patients, and tailored treatment plans for tartar-related problems. Call to book an exam and get relief before pain or infection worsens.