Subgingival Plaque: Significance And Symbolism

Subgingival Plaque: Significance And Symbolism

Write short note on subgingival plaque.
Answer. Subgingival plaque is found below the gingival margin between the tooth and gingival circular tissue.

• It is usually thin, contained within the gingival sulcus or periodontal pocket and thus cannot be detected by direct observation.
• Its presence can be identifid only by running the end of probe along gingival margin.
• There are three types of subgingival plaque:
  • Tooth-associated subgingival plaque: The structure is similar to the supragingival plaque. The flora is associated with calculus formation, root caries and root resorption.
  • Epithelium-associated subgingival plaque: This type of plaque is usually adherent because it lacks the interbacterial matrix and is in direct association with gingival epithelium.
  • Connective tissue-associated plaque: It is usually demonstrated in ANUG and localized juvenile periodontitis patient. Its clinical signifiance is unclear.

The tooth-associated subgingival plaque is most important in calculus formation, root caries and slowly progressive periodontal destruction.

 

Difference Between Supragingival And Subgingival Plaque