Tartar or dental calculus is calcified dental plaque. Dental plaque is an aggregate of microorganisms which stick to each other on the tooth surface. Dental calculus has microorganisms that originate from saliva, fluids from gums and diet, and inorganic components such as brushite, calcium phosphate and hydroxiapatite. There are 2 types of calculus: Supragingival and subgingival. Supragingival calculus starts with salivary proteins absorbed on the tooth surface to form a pellicle, then microorganisms adhere and plaque matures and calcifies. This is more common in areas associated with salivary ducts openings, the back of lower anterior teeth and the upper back molar. The amount of supragingival calculus varies according to the composition of saliva, local physiologic factors, oral habits and frequency of professional dental care. The pH of saliva is also a factor. A high pH will break down proteins in saliva that will be deposit on teeth. Swimmers suffer from heavy calculus on the front teeth because chemicals in the pool’s water have a higher pH that alters the pH of the saliva. Subgingival calculus is formed by mineral salts from gum fluids and appears under the gum in between teeth throughout the dentition and is dark brown. We can prevent dental calculus by brushing with a tartar control toothpaste, flossing, chewing gum and visiting the dentist more often for a professional cleaning.
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