Dental Pulp Is a Connective Tissue
摘要
Despite its classification as a loose connective tissue, a dental pulp exhibits distinct characteristics that set it apart. These include the presence of specialized odontoblast cells, the absence of mast cells, its enclosed environment within the hard tooth structure with limited blood supply, and restricted vascular access confined to the root apex. This chapter reviews the unique histological characteristics of the dental pulp. A particular emphasis is placed on the dental pulp’s cellular composition, including odontoblasts, fibroblasts, undifferentiated mesenchymal cells, and immunocompetent cells. Additionally, the chapter explores the distinct clinical responses of deciduous and young permanent teeth to various stimuli. The inflammatory responses of a deciduous dental pulp tissue are thoroughly examined.