subgingival calculus

subgingival calculus.

See calculus.

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calculus (dental) (kal´kyls),

n a hard deposit on the exposed surfaces of the teeth and any oral prosthesis within the oral cavity. It is composed of calcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, magnesium phosphate, and other elements within an organic matrix composed of plaque, desquamated epithelium, mucin, microorganisms, and other debris. Factor in the initiation and continuation of periodontal disease. The colloquial term is tartar.

Advanced calculus.

calculus, identification of, by air application,

n the use of compressed air to dry the periodontium and visualize minimal amounts of calculus, which are otherwise difficult to see, especially subgingivally.

calculus record,

n a written accounting of the number and distribution of calculus deposits on tooth surfaces that becomes part of the patient's permanent chart and is used to monitor progress and plan treatment.

calculus, subgingival,

n the calculus deposited on the tooth structure and found apical to the gingival margin within the periodontal pocket. Usually darker and denser than supragingival calculus. Older term is
serumal calculus.

calculus, supragingival,

n the calculus deposited on the teeth coronal to the gingival margin. Usually lighter in color (unless stained) and less dense than subgingival calculus. Older term is
salivary calculus.

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subgingival (subjin´jivl),

adj at a level apical to the gingival margin.

subgingival calculus,

n See calculus, subgingival.

subgingival curettage,

n See curettage, subgingival.

subgingival irrigation, preanesthetic-antimicrobial,

n a procedure for delivering a liquid antimicrobial agent to a subgingival area before; used to destroy or inhibit the growth of microorganisms and prevent contamination or infection. Not known if effects are long term.

subgingival scaling,

n See scaling, subgingival.