![]() One such example, according to the IJDHS review, is an instrument known as a dental explorer, which helps the dental professional feel and remove calculus. While your dentist and dental hygienist can typically detect supragingival calculus visually, dental professionals also receive extensive training using equipment other than their eyes. Calculus above the gumline can appear whitish or yellowish in color. The parts of your hand and wrist that extend visibly outside the sleeve would be considered supragingival (above the gumline), whereas anything unseen below the sleeve would be considered subgingival (below the gumline). If you think of the edge of the gums like a shirt sleeve and imagine the tooth is like your hand in the sleeve, you can get a better image of this classification. The difference between the two types is the location of the calculus relative to the edge of the gum tissue. Types of CalculusĪccording to the IJDHS review, there are two types of dental calculus: supragingival and subgingival. These minerals, which include calcium and phosphorous, stick to the biofilm and harden with it over time, creating a rock-like adhesion on the tooth called calculus or tartar. As colonies of bacteria (called biofilm) develop in the mouth, they collect the minerals found in your saliva and in the foods you eat. The American Academy of Periodontology notes that while dental plaque can be removed at home, calculus must be removed by a dental professional, as it strongly adheres to the tooth surface.Ī review in the International Journal of Dental and Health Sciences (IJDHS) explains that plaque can form on any surfaces inside the mouth where nutrients are available to feed the bacteria. Once it hardens, the calculus - also called tartar - sticks to the tooth like a barnacle to a boat. ![]() ![]() PlaqueĪccording to the American Dental Association (ADA), calculus forms when sticky plaque on the teeth is not removed and is left to harden. But do you know about supragingival calculus? Read on to learn what supragingival calculus is and how establishing a good oral care routine can prevent bacteria buildup in the mouth. Your dental professional has probably told you about bacteria and plaque and their effects on your oral health. ![]()
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