Dental calculus is a hard, dark gray or yellowish deposit on the teeth. It is a pathological calcified formation that accumulates in areas of the teeth (between the teeth, at the neck) that are not sufficiently cleaned during chewing.
There are two types of dental calculus: supragingival and subgingival. These types differ not only in location but also in chemical composition, formation mechanism, and sources of mineral components. Dental calculus can cover the entire surface of the tooth, especially when the tooth does not participate in chewing (in the presence of a carious cavity or the absence of an opposing tooth), as well as in cases of poor oral hygiene.
The initial stage of dental calculus formation is soft dental plaque, which consists of keratinized epithelial cells, food debris, bacteria, and mucus that binds the entire mass together. Plaque is effectively removed with proper dental care and chewing hard food on both sides. In smokers, dental plaque and calculus have a brown or even black color due to the presence of tobacco combustion residues. This type of dental calculus mainly accumulates on the inner surfaces of the teeth and is very difficult to remove.
In children and adolescents, a greenish band can be observed on the labial surface of the tooth necks. This green plaque adheres firmly to the tooth enamel and is difficult to clean, even with a toothbrush (using medication). The appearance of green plaque is explained by the colonization of microorganisms (chromogenic bacteria) in the plaque.
If the soft plaque is not removed in a timely manner, it gradually absorbs calcium salts and turns into hard dental calculus, with the deposits increasing over time. Sometimes dental calculus can accumulate under the edges of the gums and even on the surfaces of the tooth roots.
Dental calculus gradually pushes the gum away from the tooth, causing irritation, resulting in gum bleeding. If left unattended, gingivitis with purulent discharge may develop, and bad breath may also occur.
The accumulation of dental calculus predisposes to periodontitis.
By visiting the "Kamar" dental clinic, you can have your dental calculus removed with the intervention of our professional dentists using special tools, and sometimes ultrasonic devices.