WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DENTAL CALCULUS AND PLAQUE?
What is dental calculus?
Calculus is a hard deposit that is formed by mineralization of dental plaque on the surface of natural teeth and dental prosthesis, generally covered by layer of unmineralised plaque.
What is dental plaque?
A sticky film that coats teeth and contains bacteria.Dental plaque is a sticky, colorless or pale yellow film that is constantly forming on your teeth. When saliva, food and fluids combine, plaque – which contains bacteria – forms between your teeth and along the gum line.
Calculus cannot be removed with a toothbrush; only a dental professional can remove it during an oral cleaning.
What are the effects of dental plaque and calculus?
- Bleeding gums/Gingivitis
- Dental caries/Tooth decay
- Periodontal disease which may lead to loose/mobile teeth.
- Halitosis/bad breath.
The best way to prevent these complications is to brush twice a day, to floss once a day, and to visit your dentist regularly for cleanings.
