News

One of the most recognizable characteristics of periodontal diseases is the presence of calculus, which is easy to notice, especially if it is pigmented and situated above the gingiva. However, calculus can be hidden and in such cases its presence is neglected by both the patients and dentists. Bacteria which are a constituent part of oral cavity and the dental plaque play an important role in the creation of dental plaque. One millilitre of saliva can contain more than 108 types of bacteria, while the oral cavity can harbour several hundred types of bacteria. Most of these bacteria are harmless. Even more so, many of them are useful and form a constituent part of a normal oral flora. Sometimes, conditions are formed in the mouth which allow the spreading of bacteria which can be harmful. Some of those “harmful bacteria” create mineralized structures on the surface of the teeth (dental calculus) which protect many bacteria from mechanical removal. This forms a mechanical protection for some harmful bacteria so they can destroy the periodontal tissue.  The aim of our procedures is to have a high portion of “good” bacteria which protect the oral cavity and do not cause caries or periodontitis.   Is it difficult to notice the calculus which might cause a problem? Calculus can be situated above the gum level (gingiva). This type of calculus is more visible and the patients are often aware they have it. In comparison with that, the calculus situated below the gum level is more difficult to notice and the patients are not often aware they have it.