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Subgingival calculus: where are we now? A comparative review
E A Roberts-Harry1, V Clerehugh
1Department of Periodontology, Leeds Dental Institute, UK. a.r.calvert@leeds.ac.uk
Journal of Dentistry
|February 10, 2000
Summary
Ethnic variations influence subgingival calculus formation and composition. Further research is needed to understand these differences and the role of mineral constituents in dental calculus.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Dental Calculus Research
Background:
- Subgingival and supragingival calculus differ in formation and composition.
- Ethnic variations may influence calculus development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically analyze the formation, composition, ethnic variations, and pathogenic potential of subgingival calculus compared to supragingival calculus.
- To synthesize current scientific literature on dental calculus.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of English-language scientific papers since 1960 from CD-ROM and Index Medicus.
- Selection of studies based on relevance, contemporary data on calculus composition/formation, and ethnic group comparisons.
- Evaluation of study quality using population, methodology, statistics, and conclusions.
Main Results:
- Identified similarities and differences in the formation and composition of supragingival and subgingival calculus.
- Demonstrated diverse morphological types of subgingival calculus.
- Found evidence linking ethnicity to calculus formation and composition, particularly for subgingival calculus.
Conclusions:
- Established an association between ethnicity and the formation and composition of subgingival calculus.
- Highlighted the need for further research into the causes of ethnic differences in dental calculus.
- Emphasized the importance of investigating the role of mineral constituents in subgingival calculus.