Calculus Formation

Question 1

What is calculus?

Answer 1

A creamy-whitish to dark yellow or brownish mass which forms around a tooth

It is a mineralised plaque- Calcium phosphate crystals

Question 2

What is mineralisation dependent on?

Answer 2

Bacteria being present.

Question 3

Does calculus cause periodontitis?

Answer 3

No, it only acts as a plaque trap

Question 4

Is calculus a plaque retentive factor?

Answer 4

Yes

It contributes to gingivitis

Question 5

How long does calculus take to form?

Answer 5

2-14 days, and it can mature over time

Question 6

What are the 2 types of plaque?

Answer 6

Supragingival and subgingival

Question 7

How does calculus form?

Answer 7

Process of plaque formation will happen first & then you will have mineralisation of the plaque (calculus)

To get mineralisation you need:

-A saturated solution of calcium & phosphate ions

-Bacteria to initiate crystal growth

-A suitably high pH to promote mineralisation (you have this in saliva from carbonic acid: CO2+H2O–>H2CO3–>H+ HCO3-

Question 8

Which type of calculus is harder to remove? Why?

Answer 8

Sub-gingival calculus.

-Supra-gingival calculus buildup remains above the gum line, often visible and easy to remove.

-Sub-gingival calculus buildup extends beneath the gum line, where it is entirely unseen and can be difficult to remove as a result.

Question 8

What influences the different types of calculus formation?

Answer 8

Supra-gingival plaque mineralisation - due to precipitation of mineral salts present in the saliva

Sub-gingival plaque mineralisation - due to presence of mineral salts in the inflammatory exudate

look at slides