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Published on: January 12, 2017
Three-dimensional analysis of pulp chambers in maxillary second deciduous molars
1Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Dental College, 1-2-2 Masago Mihama-ku Chiba, 261-8502 Japan.
Journal of Dentistry
|January 31, 2006
Summary
Restorative dentistry requires caution when preparing maxillary second deciduous molars. The mesiobuccal pulp horn is thin and protrudes, necessitating careful cavity preparation to avoid pulp exposure.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Restorative Dentistry
- Dental Anatomy
Background:
- Understanding the pulp chamber's position relative to external tooth anatomy is crucial for safe cavity preparation in deciduous teeth.
- Maxillary second deciduous molars have unique anatomical features that may influence restorative procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the three-dimensional positional relationship between the crown contour and the pulp chamber in maxillary second deciduous molars.
- To assess dentin thickness and pulp chamber volume in relation to tooth age (deciduous vs. mixed dentition).
Main Methods:
- Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) was used to analyze five maxillary second deciduous molars from both deciduous and mixed dentition periods.
- Measurements included the positional relationship of the pulp chamber, dentin thickness at pulp horns, and pulp chamber volume ratio.
Main Results:
- The mesiobuccal pulp horn exhibited the greatest protrusion and mesial wall swelling.
- The pulp chamber was consistently shifted towards the mesial side.
- Pulp chamber volume ratio was significantly smaller in the mixed dentition period compared to the deciduous dentition period.
- The thinnest dentin was found at the mesiobuccal pulp horn.
Conclusions:
- Cavity preparation in maxillary second deciduous molars demands careful attention to avoid exposing the mesiobuccal pulp horn.
- The mesial wall of the mesiobuccal pulp horn requires particular consideration during restorative procedures.
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