Question

Fill in the Blank. When plaque becomes heavy and hardened, it is called dental calculus or _________.

Short answer

Tartar

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Question

The exercise requires knowledge of dental terminology. The missing term is a synonym for dental calculus.

Identifying the Correct Term

The term that is synonymous with dental calculus and fits the blank is 'tartar'.

Key concepts

Dental Plaque

Dental plaque is a sticky, colorless film that continually forms on our teeth and along the gum line. It is a collection of millions of bacteria, which are naturally present in the mouth. When you eat, these bacteria feast on the sugars in your foods and produce acids in the process. Without proper oral hygiene, plaque can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

It's important to remove plaque regularly by brushing and flossing your teeth. Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day are the key actions. Over time, if plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, also known as dental calculus, which is much more difficult to remove.

Tartar

Tartar, or dental calculus, is what dental plaque transforms into when left unattended in the mouth. This hardened form of plaque adheres strongly to the enamel of teeth and below the gumline. It provides a rough surface that encourages further plaque accumulation and can only be removed by a dental professional.

Once tartar forms, it's essential to visit a dentist or dental hygienist to have it removed using special tools in a process called scaling. Leaving tartar untreated may lead to more serious problems such as periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease.

Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping the mouth clean and healthy to prevent dental problems. A good oral hygiene routine involves brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily to remove plaque from places your toothbrush can't reach, using mouthwash, and visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

Maintaining oral hygiene is vital not only for the health of your teeth and gums but for your overall well-being, as poor oral health has been linked to various health issues, including diabetes and heart disease.

Dental Terminology

Understanding dental terminology is essential when discussing oral health. Terms like 'plaque,' 'tartar,' 'cavities,' and 'gingivitis' are part of everyday language in a dental clinic. Knowing these terms helps in understanding the condition of one's oral health and the procedures recommended by dental professionals.

'Plaque' refers to the sticky biofilm on teeth, 'tartar' is hardened plaque, 'cavities' are the result of decay caused by acid from plaque, and 'gingivitis' is an early stage of gum disease. These are just a few examples of important terms that help individuals to effectively communicate with their dental care providers and understand their treatment plans.