What causes subgingival plaque?

Supragingival plaque is bacteria adherent above the gingiva, whereas bacteria below the gingiva is called subgingival plaque. Growth in supragingival plaque mass results from nutrients obtained from ingested simple carbohydrates (glucose), lactic acid and other plaque components.

How do I get rid of subgingival plaque?

Ultrasonic instruments. Ultrasonic instruments are the principle treatment modality for removing plaque and calculus. These power-driven instruments oscillate at very high speeds, causing micro vibrations that aid in calculus and subgingival plaque removal.

How are plaques formed on the teeth?

Plaque forms when bacteria in your mouth mix with sugary or starchy foods, such as milk, juice, soft drinks, bread, pasta and fruit. These bacteria release acids that break down carbohydrates in food and drinks.

What is subgingival biofilm?

Subgingival biofilms are 3D structured communities of bacteria that live attached to the surface of the root of teeth or dental implants, with their outer surface directly facing the gingival tissue. In a healthy periodontium, these sites are not accessible to bacteria.

Is subgingival tartar bad?

Tartar below the gum line, also known as subgingival tartar, may take on a black appearance as blood from sensitive or damaged gums combines with the tartar itself. This can be an indication of gum disease becoming serious.

What is dental plaque composed of?

Plaque is a sticky film that forms on your teeth as you sleep and as you move through your day. It’s made up of several strains of bacteria plus a sticky coating. The bacteria in plaque feed on carbs and sugars, producing acid as they metabolize the sugars.

What causes plaque and tartar on teeth?

What Causes Dental Plaque and Tartar? When saliva, food, and fluids combine in your mouth they produce an environment that allows the bacteria to grow and deposit which collect on teeth and gums and especially where the teeth and gums meet.

What is subgingival?

Subgingival means below the gum line (sub = below, gingival = of or relating to the gums). Calculus is a form of hardened dental plaque. It is caused by the condensation of saliva minerals and the fluid produced in the crevices of our gums.

How do you do subgingival scaling?

For subgingival scaling with hand instruments, use a subgingival curette (e.g. Gracey curette SG 11/12 or 13/14). Place the blade at 45°-90° to the root surface and pull firmly against the tissue to remove as much debris and chronically inflamed tissue as possible.

What is a subgingival curettage?

[ sŭb-jĭn′jə-vəl, -jĭn-jī′- ] n. The removal of subgingival calculus or ulcerated epithelial and granulomatous tissues from periodontal pockets with a curette.