How is supragingival calculus usually described?

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Supragingival calculus, or tartar that forms above the gum line, is typically described as being chalky and varying in color from white to yellow and gray. This characteristic appearance is due to the mineralization of plaque and the accumulation of materials from saliva and bacterial byproducts. The chalky texture is a result of the calcium and phosphate salts that precipitate in the presence of oral bacteria, creating a rough surface that can be felt with dental instruments.

In contrast, the other descriptions do not accurately reflect supragingival calculus. The darker colors, such as black and dark brown, are usually indicative of subgingival calculus, which occurs below the gum line due to different factors including the gingival crevicular fluid. Dark green and mottled descriptions can relate to other dental plaque deposits or staining but do not refer to supragingival calculus specifically. Clear and transparent is not applicable to any form of calculus, as the mineralized deposits are solid and often opaque, contrasting with the clarity suggested by that description.

Thus, the identification of supragingival calculus as chalky, white, yellow, and gray aligns with its typical clinical presentation, making this the correct choice.

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