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Dental Calculus

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What is Dental Calculus

Calculus (or tartar) is a hard substance created by mineralized plaque on the surfaces of the tooth. If not removed, plaque will turn into calculus after around 2 weeks.

It is predominantly made up of calcium phosphate and survives well in the burial environment. There are two forms of calculus: supra- and subgingival, describing its location on the crown or root of the tooth, respectively.

Formation of Dental Calculus

Plaque Accumulation

  • Dental plaque is a soft, sticky film composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva that constantly forms on the teeth.
  • If plaque is not removed regularly through proper oral hygiene, it begins to harden.

Mineralization

  • Saliva contains minerals like calcium and phosphate.
  • When plaque remains on the teeth, these minerals can deposit into the plaque, causing it to harden and form calculus.
  • This process can begin within 24 to 72 hours of plaque formation and can become fully hardened within about 12 days.

Implications of Dental Calculus

  • Gum Disease :

    Calculus provides a rough surface where additional plaque can accumulate, increasing the risk of gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontitis (severe gum disease), It can cause gums to become swollen, tender, and bleed easily.
  • Tooth Decay :

    Although calculus itself is not directly responsible for cavities, it harbors bacteria that produce acids, leading to tooth decay.
  • Bad Breath :

    The bacteria within calculus can produce foul-smelling compounds, contributing to halitosis (bad breath).
  • Aesthetic Concerns :

    Visible calculus deposits can be unsightly, affecting the appearance of teeth and smile.

Prevention of Dental Calculus

  • Oral Hygiene :

    Brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily to remove plaque before it can harden.
  • Regular Dental Visits :

    Professional cleanings every six months to remove plaque and calculus that cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing.

Removal of Dental Calculus

  • Professional Cleaning Through Manual Scaling :

    Dentists use hand-held instruments, like scalers and curettes, to manually remove calculus.
  • Professional Cleaning Through Ultrasonic Scaling :

    Ultrasonic scalers use high-frequency vibrations to break apart calculus, followed by irrigation to wash away debris.