Dental Calculus Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary composition of dental calculus regarding its organic and inorganic components?

0-10% organic, 90-100% inorganic

50-70% organic, 30-50% inorganic

30-50% organic, 50-70% inorganic

10-30% organic, 70-90% inorganic (correct)

Which of the following correctly describes a characteristic of subgingival calculus compared to supragingival calculus?

Subgingival calculus is typically more mineralized than supragingival calculus. (correct)

Subgingival calculus is easier to remove than supragingival calculus.

Subgingival calculus has a lighter color than supragingival calculus.

Subgingival calculus forms within 48 hours of biofilm development.

Which of the following locations is least likely for dental calculus accumulation?

Gingival crevice

Prosthesis areas

Flat occlusal surfaces (correct)

Root surface with periodontal pockets

What is the crystalline structure of dental calculus primarily composed of?

Magnesium hydroxyapatite and calcium phosphate Signup and view all the answers

In the formation of dental calculus, what is the typical time frame for mineralization after plaque biofilm formation?

48 hours to 2 weeks Signup and view all the answers

What type of attachment allows calculus to firmly adhere to a tooth surface?

Penetration into cementum, enamel, or dentine Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true about the ages of dental calculus?

Older calculus tends to be more mineralized than younger calculus. Signup and view all the answers

What role does dental calculus play in dental disease progression?

Dental calculus increases the risk of periodontal disease. Signup and view all the answers

What role does the element in the organic matrix play in calculus formation?

It acts as a seeding agent. Signup and view all the answers

Which substances released from bacteria promote the calcification process?

Phosphatases and proteases Signup and view all the answers

What is the main product formed from insoluble calcium phosphate crystals during the process of calcification?

Calculus Signup and view all the answers

Which factor does NOT contribute to variations in the rate of calculus formation?

The temperature of the mouth Signup and view all the answers

How are individuals broadly classified based on their calculus formation rate?

As heavy, moderate, slight, or non-calculus formers Signup and view all the answers

Which method is NOT typically used for the detection of calculus?

Salivary analysis Signup and view all the answers

What might be a significant concern for clinicians in relation to calculus?

It can contribute to periodontal disease. Signup and view all the answers

Which option best describes what occurs during the process of calculus formation?

Insoluble crystals form and become calcified. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Dental Calculus

Dental Calculus is mineralized bacterial biofilm
Forms 48 hours to 2 weeks after plaque biofilm formation
Composition is approximately 10-30% organic and 70-90% inorganic
Organic content includes plaque bacteria, dead epithelial cells, white blood cells (WBCs)
Inorganic content includes calcium, phosphate, magnesium, carbonate
Calcium brushite, octocalcium phosphate, hydroxyapatite, and magnesium whitlockite are crystals found in dental calculus
Crystalline content can vary based on location (anterior/posterior), supra/sub location, age of calculus, and individual
Common locations for dental calculus include: gingival crevice, root surface with periodontal pockets, prosthesis, restoration ledges, imbricated teeth, occlusal surfaces
Supra-calculus is located above the gum line, and sub-calculus is found below the gum line
Calculus attaches to the tooth surface through acquired pellicle, penetration into enamel, cementum, or dentine, or by adhering to tooth irregularities like previous instrumentation
The formation of dental calculus is influenced by organic matrix elements acting as seeding agents, and phosphatases and proteases released by bacteria degrade calcification inhibitors in saliva
Insoluble calcium phosphate crystals coalesce to form calcified mass of plaque called calculus
Calculus formation rate varies based on individual, tooth, and timeframe
People can be categorized as heavy, moderate, slight, or non-calculus formers
Detection of calculus can be done visually and with radiographs
Calculus can impact the progression of periodontal disease

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Description

This quiz explores the characteristics and composition of dental calculus, including its formation and variations based on location and individual factors. Understand the differences between supra-calculus and sub-calculus and their implications on oral health.