Granulation tissue

Granulation tissue (Latin: granulum) is a young connective tissue rich in blood vessels and immune system cells. In dentistry, the formation of this tissue is the body’s universal response to chronic inflammation at the root tip of the tooth.

Etiology and pathophysiology

When infection is constantly coming from the root canal, the bone tissue of the jaw is destroyed and replaced by granulation tissue. This tissue has a protective function: blood vessels deliver immune system cells to the site of infection to fight microorganisms. Over time, the granulation tissue may increase in volume, leading to the formation of a granuloma.

Clinical significance

On X-ray, granulation tissue looks like a darkened area (dark spot). After successful endodontic treatment and elimination of biofilm in the root canals, granulation is gradually transformed into full-fledged bone tissue, which is a sign of healing.