Pulp Biology of Deciduous and Permanent Teeth

The dental pulp is a complex organ with various functions that are reflected by its morphology. The angioarchitecture and nerve supply of deciduous and permanent teeth resemble one another. The morphologies of the pulp of deciduous and permanent teeth are similar, but some distinct differences can be found. The odontoblastic layer in deciduous teeth is thinner than in permanent teeth, which may reflect a reduced regenerative capacity. In deciduous teeth, many immature dental pulp stem cells can be isolated. The main difference in the biology of the pulp between deciduous and permanent teeth is that the lifetime of deciduous teeth is rather limited. Under the influence of the developing permanent tooth, odontoclasts differentiate and resorb root dentin. Pulp tissue is also resorbed. In permanent teeth, dental hard tissue and pulp tissue are only resorbed under pathologic conditions.