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Dental plaque and calculus: risk indicators for their formation
L A Christersson1, S G Grossi, R G Dunford
1Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, State University of New York, Buffalo 14214.
Journal of Dental Research
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Plaque and calculus accumulation are significantly linked to periodontal disease severity. Established disease, Black race, male gender, and older age are key risk indicators for plaque buildup.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Oral Health Research
Background:
- Periodontal disease is a major global oral health concern.
- Plaque and calculus are primary etiological factors in periodontal disease progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess plaque and subgingival calculus levels.
- To evaluate correlations between these factors and periodontal disease.
- To identify risk indicators including race, age, and gender for plaque and calculus formation.
Main Methods:
- Examined 508 adults aged 25-73.
- Assessed plaque, gingival bleeding, probing pocket depth, and attachment levels.
- Performed regression analyses to determine correlations.
Main Results:
- High prevalence of plaque (73.5%) and calculus (39.6%) observed.
- Significant correlations found between plaque/calculus and periodontal disease categories (p < 0.001).
- Established disease, Black race, male gender, and older age were significant predictors of plaque accumulation.
Conclusions:
- Plaque and calculus are strongly associated with periodontal disease.
- Disease status and race are significant predictors of subgingival calculus.
- Identifying these risk factors aids in targeted periodontal disease prevention strategies.