An Overview of Dental Calculus

Dental calculus is a hard deposit that is formed by calcification of dental plaque. It is composed of calcium phosphate mineral salts deposited on natural teeth and restorations is covered by a layer of unmineralized plaque. The hard deposits may be formed coronal to the gingival margin. The distribution of calculus is very versatile and it differs from individual to individual, tooth to tooth and surface to surface. The prevalence of calculus is important for the clinician in outlining the treatment plan. It's very well known that calculus itself is not an inducing agent for pathological issues that occur in gingival tissues. Calculus is covered by a layer of unmineralized plaque which is the etiological agent involved in pathogenic mechanisms. Calculus is a contributing factor to periodontal diseases due to the retention of dental plaque on its rough surface. Due to the buildup of calcium phosphates, calculus formation over a carious tooth will halt the progression of the cavity. Recent studies have shown that calculus in adult remains have identified fragments of pollen and hair with advances in biomolecular sequencing proving effective in identifying aDNA of oral pathogens. A buildup of calculus on the labial aspects of the teeth may indicate a period of invalidity before death. Although considered a degenerative condition that increases with age, dental calculus is seen in nonadult dentitions.