DMD DMD Endodontics and Pulp Biology

Question 1

Which zone of the pulp contains the cell bodies of odontoblasts?

Accepted Answer

Odontoblastic layer

Answer

The odontoblastic layer is the outermost zone of the pulp and contains the cell bodies of odontoblasts, which line the pulp-dentin border.

Question 2

Which test is most reliable for confirming pulp vitality?

Accepted Answer

Laser Doppler flowmetry

Answer

Laser Doppler flowmetry directly measures blood flow within the pulp, making it the most reliable vitality test, though it is not routinely available in clinical practice.

Question 3

Irreversible pulpitis is characterized by which symptom?

Accepted Answer

Lingering pain after stimulus removal

Answer

Lingering pain (>30 seconds after stimulus removal) is the hallmark of irreversible pulpitis, indicating significant pulpal inflammation that cannot heal.

Question 4

What is the function of the Weil's (cell-free) zone in the pulp?

Accepted Answer

It contains unmyelinated nerve fibers and capillaries but is relatively acellular, serving as a reserve for fibroblast migration

Answer

Weil's zone is a relatively acellular region just beneath the odontoblastic layer that contains fine nerve fibers and capillaries and serves as a reservoir for fibroblast migration during repair.

Question 5

Which type of dentin is formed in response to caries or trauma as a protective response?

Accepted Answer

Tertiary (reparative) dentin

Answer

Tertiary dentin, also called reparative dentin, is rapidly formed by newly differentiated odontoblast-like cells in response to irritation such as caries or operative procedures.

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DMD DMD Endodontics and Pulp Biology