Dental pulp

The dental pulp (Latin pulpa dentis) is a loose connective tissue that fills the inner cavity of the tooth. It contains cellular structures, a complex network of blood and lymphatic vessels, as well as nerve fibers and receptors. The pulp is the biological center of the tooth, providing nutrition, innervation and protection.

Etiology and pathophysiology

The main feature of the pulp is its location in a closed chamber with non-stretchable walls. Because of this, in case of inflammation (hyperemia and edema of the pulp), the pressure inside the tooth increases rapidly, which leads to compression of vessels and nerves. The limited collateral blood flow through the narrow apical opening reduces the regenerative capacity of the pulp tissue in severe injuries.

Clinical significance

The pulp is responsible for forming dentin, nourishing the hard tissues of the tooth, protecting the periodontium from infection, and sensory perception of stimuli. Most acute toothaches are associated with inflammation of the pulp. In case of irreversible damage, the pulp must be removed, after which the tooth retains its function, but loses the ability to perceive stimuli and regenerate dentin.