DENTAL CALCULUS Meaning and
Definition
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Dental calculus, also known as tartar or dental plaque calculus, is a mineralized deposit that forms on the teeth and gum line. It is a hard, yellowish-brown substance that develops as a result of the accumulation and calcification of dental plaque. Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria, food particles, and saliva that constantly forms on the teeth. If not adequately removed through regular oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing, the plaque hardens and forms dental calculus.
Dental calculus is comprised of various minerals, primarily calcium and phosphate, which come from salivary secretions and food debris. The hardened calculus typically starts forming below the gum line, initially appearing as a soft deposit called dental plaque. Over time, it progresses into calculus as minerals from saliva deposit onto the plaque.
Dental calculus is a common dental problem and poses several concerns to oral health. Its rough surface provides an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply, leading to the development of dental infections such as gum disease (periodontitis). Calculus also serves as a site for the accumulation of further plaque, perpetuating oral hygiene issues.
The removal of dental calculus requires professional dental cleaning, commonly known as scaling and root planing. Dental professionals utilize specialized tools to scrape and remove the hardened deposits from the tooth surfaces and beneath the gum line. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, is crucial in preventing the formation and progression of dental calculus.
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(1) Tartar; (2) serumal c.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DENTAL CALCULUS
- denal calculus
- sental calculus
- xental calculus
- cental calculus
- fental calculus
- rental calculus
- eental calculus
- dwntal calculus
- dsntal calculus
- ddntal calculus
- drntal calculus
- d4ntal calculus
- d3ntal calculus
- debtal calculus
- demtal calculus
- dejtal calculus
- dehtal calculus
- denral calculus
- denfal calculus
- dengal calculus
Etymology of DENTAL CALCULUS
The word "dental calculus" has its origins in Latin and Greek.
The term "dental" is derived from the Latin word "dens", meaning "tooth". It is related to words such as "dentist" and "dentistry", which also have Latin origins.
The word "calculus" comes from the Latin word "calculus", which translates to "pebble" or "small stone". In ancient times, the term was used to describe small stones used for counting or calculating. Over time, it was adopted by mathematicians to refer to mathematical calculations.
When it comes to "dental calculus", the term is used to describe the hard, mineralized deposits that form on teeth due to the accumulation of plaque. The term "calculus" is used metaphorically to describe the hardened nature of this buildup, similar to the way small stones calcify and harden over time.
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