Pulp

Definition

Pulp is the soft tissue found in the center of a tooth, containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It plays a crucial role in the formation and nourishment of the dentin.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dental pulp contains odontoblasts, which are responsible for forming dentin.
2. Pulpitis is an inflammation of the dental pulp that can result from bacterial infection due to caries.
3. The dental pulp is encased within a rigid chamber formed by dentin and enamel, limiting its capacity to swell during inflammation.
4. Necrosis of dental pulp can occur if an infection remains untreated, potentially leading to abscess formation.
5. Endodontic treatment or root canal therapy involves removal of infected or damaged pulp to save the tooth.

Review Questions

• What cells within the dental pulp are responsible for forming dentin?
• What condition results from inflammation of the dental pulp?
• Why is necrosis of dental pulp a concern in untreated infections?

Related terms

Odontoblasts: Cells located in the dental pulp that produce dentin.

Pulpitis: Inflammation of the dental pulp often caused by bacterial infection.

Root Canal Therapy: A dental procedure that involves removing infected or damaged pulp to save a tooth.