What causes the mineralization of plaque into calculus?

The mineralization of plaque into calculus is primarily caused by calcium phosphate derived from saliva. As plaque accumulates on the teeth, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Over time, components from saliva, particularly calcium and phosphate ions, interact with the organic materials in the plaque. This process leads to the hardening of plaque, transforming it into calculus, also known as tartar.

Salivary components play a crucial role in this mineralization process. Saliva contains dissolved minerals, including calcium and phosphate, which are essential for tooth remineralization and maintenance. When plaque is allowed to remain on the teeth for an extended period, these minerals precipitate and crystallize, ultimately leading to calculus formation.

While salivary enzymes and dietary minerals can influence oral health and plaque formation differently, they are not the primary cause of the mineralization process. Exposure to air can lead to oxidation but does not contribute directly to the mineralization occurring within plaque, making calcium phosphate the key factor in the conversion of plaque to calculus.