Calculus
Hardened, mineralised dental plaque that adheres to tooth surfaces and cannot be removed by routine brushing alone.
Full Definition
In dental hygiene contexts, calculus—also called tartar—refers to the calcified deposits that form when dental plaque undergoes mineralisation through the precipitation of calcium and phosphate salts from saliva or crevicular fluid. Supragingival calculus forms above the gumline and is typically yellow or white; subgingival calculus forms below the gumline and is usually darker and denser. Both forms are significant risk factors for periodontal disease. Editors must distinguish this clinical term from the mathematical discipline of the same name; context will generally clarify, but care is required in interdisciplinary documents.
Usage
Usage note: In clinical documents, prefer 'calculus' over 'tartar'. In patient-facing materials, 'tartar' may be used for accessibility, with 'calculus' introduced parenthetically.
In Context
- "Heavy subgingival calculus was detected on the lingual surfaces of the mandibular anteriors during the initial examination." — Periodontal assessment report
- "The patient education brochure used 'tartar' rather than 'calculus' to ensure lay readability." — Patient education material