How to Remove Subgingival Calculus
Aug 04, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Liwen
Introduction
If subgingival calculus is present beneath the gumline, it should be removed by a dental professional at a reputable hospital’s dentistry department. Calculus is categorized into supragingival (above the gumline) and subgingival (below the gumline) types; subgingival calculus is more harmful to the gums and periodontal tissues. Therefore, if subgingival calculus is detected, prompt removal is essential. It is advisable to seek treatment at the dentistry department of a reputable hospital or, preferably, the periodontics department of a large hospital for scaling and root planing.
If dental calculus (tartar) is present on the tooth surface and gingival recession is observed, it indicates that the patient has periodontitis—a condition that can lead to detrimental alveolar bone loss and reduced tooth height. So, how is subgingival calculus removed?
How to Remove Subgingival Calculus
If subgingival calculus is present beneath the gingival margin, it should be professionally removed at a reputable hospital’s dental department. Dental calculus is categorized into supragingival (above the gumline) and subgingival (below the gumline) types; subgingival calculus is particularly harmful to the gingiva and periodontal tissues. Therefore, prompt removal is essential upon detection. Patients should visit the dental or periodontal department of a reputable or large-scale hospital for scaling and root planing. Using specialized instruments, clinicians perform reverse-scaling techniques to eliminate subgingival calculus and inflamed cementum from the root surfaces—restoring smoothness to the cervical region and root surfaces, thereby preventing plaque calcification and re-accumulation of calculus.
Subgingival calculus resides below the cementoenamel junction, primarily adhering to the root surface. It can be effectively removed using either ultrasonic scalers or hand instruments. The high-frequency vibration of ultrasonic scalers efficiently dislodges dark brown calculus from deep within periodontal pockets; however, because the root surface’s cementum layer is thin, the device’s power must be reduced to avoid damaging dental tissues. Hand scalers rely primarily on wrist motion to carefully scrape away calculus, progressing gradually along the cervical margin of the tooth.
Patients are advised to maintain a light, bland diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods, abstain from tobacco and alcohol, adhere to regular sleep schedules, and avoid staying up late. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
