discuss dental deposits – describe the location, composition, cause, implications and prevention/management

Dental deposits are primarily of two types: dental plaque and calculus (tartar).

1. Location:

   • Dental Plaque: This is a sticky, colorless deposit of bacteria that constantly forms on our teeth and along the gum line. It can build up quickly and can lead to serious dental problems.
   • Calculus: This is a harder deposit, often yellow or brown, that forms when plaque is not removed and mineralizes. It is usually found on the back of your lower front teeth and behind your upper front teeth.

2. Composition:

   • Dental Plaque: It is composed of a complex microbial community with bacteria in the form of biofilm. It also contains salivary proteins and sugars from food.
   • Calculus: It is composed of mineralized plaque, salivary proteins, dead bacteria, and food debris.

3. Cause:

   • Dental Plaque: It is caused by the natural accumulation of microbes in the mouth. The bacteria feed on sugars and starches left on the teeth after eating, producing acid as a byproduct.
   • Calculus: It is caused by the prolonged presence of plaque on the teeth, which eventually hardens and turns into calculus due to the continuous deposition of minerals from saliva and gingival crevicular fluid.

4. Implications:

   • Dental Plaque: If not removed regularly, it can lead to tooth decay (cavities) and gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis). It can also cause bad breath.
   • Calculus: It can lead to severe periodontal problems, including inflammation, bleeding, loose teeth, and tooth loss. It also contributes to bad breath.

5. Prevention/Management:

   • Dental Plaque: It can be prevented and managed by regular and proper brushing and flossing to remove plaque from all surfaces of the teeth. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also important.
   • Calculus: Once formed, it can only be removed by a dental professional using special tools in a process called scaling. Prevention is the same as for plaque, with the addition of using an antiseptic mouthwash to inhibit bacterial growth.

Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene is the key to preventing dental deposits.