7. Calculus Formation Flashcards
1
Q
LOs
A
2
Q
Primary factor of periodontal disease?
A
3
Q
What is calculus
A
- secondary local factor (plaque retentive factor)
- mineralised plaque - because of calcium phosphate crystals in saliva there is formation of calculus
4
Q
Calculus appearance
A
- creamy- whitish to dark yellow or brownish mass that forms around tooth
5
Q
How long does sit take for calculus to form
A
- plaque forms initially and from 2-14 days, calculus can start to from
- it can mature over time (can become bigger, it can change its chemistry and consistency)
6
Q
Does calculus cause periodontitis
A
- calculus is not causative of periodontitis
- acts as a plaque trap hence needs to be removed so that disease does not progress
- once calculus has formed there will be plaque covering surface of calculus which will lead onto progression of the disease
- hence v important to remove calculus to remove plaque in the area
7
Q
How is calculus removed
A
- calculus needs to be removed professionally
8
Q
2 types of calculus
A
SUPRA-GINGIVAL AND SUB-GINGIVAL CALCULUS
- supra-gingival = accumulates on teeth above gum line
- sub-gingival = below the gum line (not usu immediately visible)
- both can trap plaque and stimulate inflammation in the tissues
9
Q
Calculus formation?
A
- initially, plaque is needed (plaque is already formed)
- plaque is mineralised
- microbial matrix of bacteria together provides the matrix for calcification
- then drives precipitation of the mineral salts from saliva ( eg Ca2+ and PO4-)
-bacteria initiate crystal growth (hence bacteria required for calculus growth) - need a suitably high pH to promote mineralisation
- high pH comes from carbonic acid ( formed from CO2 and H2O
-carbonic acid causes pH to change
10
Q
What influences calculus formation?
A
11
Q
Summary/ key points to know
A
