Cálculo dental y control químico de su formación

Abstract

Dental calculus is all calcified deposit that it's formed on the teeth and other present structures in the mouth (as protesis). It is classified in supragingival and subgingival, bearing in mind the relationship with the gingival margin. lt is composed by inorganic salts as hidroxiapatite and whitlokite, and for a the organic matrix formed by proteins, carbohydrates, fatty and water, besides micro-organisms. lt appears due to calcification of the dental plaque with a high pH, although the mechanisms are not totally known. The calculus is considered a risk factor of periodontal diseases due to it's porous surface that will favour the bacterial deposition and will complicate its control with the habitual oral hygiene measures. The calculus is eliminated mechanically by ultrasonic instruments and dental polished in the dental clinic. However, in great calculus formers, it can be interesting to control their formation chemically to extend the time among visits, to facilitate their elimination and reduce the negative effects of the frequent profilaxis. In this article the mechanisms of formation of the calculus are reviewed as well as the chemical products proposed for their control. There aren' t any ideal anticalculus product, but in great calculus formers you can prescribe the use of mouthrinses or toothpastes to retard their formation although their results can change according to the patient. The dental hygienist has to know these substances as well as their action mecanism to be able to advise to the patients their use and to teach their application form.