calculus or tartar is a form of hardened dental plaque. It is caused by the precipitation of minerals from saliva and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in plaque on the teeth. The rough and hardened surface that is formed provides an ideal surface for further plaque formation. This leads to calculus buildup, which compromises the health of the gingiva (gums). Calculus can form both along the gumline, where it is referred to as supragingival (“above the gum”), and within the narrow sulcus that exists between the teeth and the gingiva, where it is referred to as subgingival (“below the gum”).

Calculus formation is associated with a number of clinical manifestations, including bad breath, receding gums and chronically inflamed gingiva.

Brushing and flossing can remove plaque from which calculus forms; however, once formed, calculus is too hard (firmly attached) to be removed with a toothbrush. Calculus buildup can be removed with ultrasonic tools or dental hand instruments during dental cleaning.

Schedule your appointment with us at North Burnaby if you are seeking dental cleaning and checkups near you.

At Madison Dental Studio, we provide quality dental cleaning in north Burnaby. We also check every other aspect of your oral health to ensure it is in optimum condition.