Periodontal disease, bacteria, and pulpal histopathology

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Abstract

Sixty teeth with various degrees of periodontal disease were extracted and studied histologically in order to determine the effect of periodontal disease on the pulp. Pathologic changes occurred in the pulp tissue when periodontal disease was present, but the pulp did not succumb as long as the main canal—the major pathway of circulation—was not involved. The cumulative effect of periodontal disease on the pulp was manifested by pulpal inflammation, calcifications, apposition of calcified tissue, and resorption. Pulpal inflammation from involved lateral canals or root caries will damage the pulp, but total disintegration apparently occurs only when all main apical foramina are involved by bacterial plaque.

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    This investigation was supported by University of Connecticut Research Foundation Grants No. 5.172-30210-35-004 and No. 5.172-30205-35-002 and Office of Naval Research Grant No. 5.172-30210-04-001.

    Professor and Head, Department of Endodontics.

    ∗∗

    Visiting Scientist, University of Connecticut Health Center, School of Dental Medicine; Faculty of Odontology, Riberirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil; supported by CAPES Fellowship.

    ∗∗∗

    Assistant Professor of Endodontics.

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