Preventive Dental Hygiene: Calculus Overview

A series of flashcards covering key vocabulary terms related to preventive dental hygiene and calculus.

Dental Calculus

Mineralized biofilm that forms on clinical crowns, roots of natural teeth, implants, and dental prostheses.

Supragingival Calculus

Calculus that forms above the gum line, generally on crowns of teeth in nonfunctioning areas.

Subgingival Calculus

Calculus that extends beneath the gum line, found in areas that are hard to reach for self-care.

Inorganic Components of Calculus

Mainly include calcium, phosphorus, carbonate, and various trace elements.

Attachment of Calculus via Acquired Pellicle

Superficial attachment commonly occurring on enamel and newly-scaled surfaces that is easily removed.

Attachment of Calculus via Minute Irregularities

Attachment that occurs in cracks, carious defects, and cementum irregularities, making removal difficult.

Significance of Calculus

Acts as a reservoir for bacteria, biofilm plays a role in immune response related to gingivitis and periodontitis.

Formation Time of Calculus

Average of 12 days to reach a mature mineralized stage, but can start mineralization as early as 24-48 hours.

Calculus Detection Methods

Supragingival detection can be performed visually, with compressed air, and tactile exams, while subgingival detection may use visual exams, transillumination, and radiographs.

Calculus Prevention Techniques

Involves patient education on bacterial plaque control, including brushing, flossing, and the use of dentifrice.