Dental Reviewed

Conditions

Calculus

Dental calculus, commonly called tartar, is hardened plaque that has mineralised on tooth surfaces and can no longer be removed by brushing or flossing alone.

Calculus forms within 24–72 hours of plaque accumulation and provides a rough surface for further plaque attachment. It is removed by professional scaling with hand instruments or ultrasonic scalers.

Also known as

  • Tartar

Related terms

Back to the dental glossary