Dentin fluid components (DFC)

Dentin fluid is a complex extracellular fluid located within the dentinal tubules of the tooth, originating primarily from the dental pulp's capillary network through a process of ultrafiltration. It consists of a variety of components including electrolytes, plasma proteins like albumin and immunoglobulins, and bioactive molecules such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and growth factors. The fluid plays a pivotal role in the hydrodynamic theory of dentin hypersensitivity, where external stimuli cause rapid fluid movement that excites mechanoreceptors in the pulp, leading to pain. Additionally, dentin fluid serves as a transport medium for nutrients and immune components, providing a defensive outward flow that helps resist the inward progression of bacteria during dental caries. While not a single molecular target, its individual components and its physical movement are central to the development of desensitizing agents and regenerative dental materials.

Other names

Dentinal fluidDentinal tubule fluidDentin liquor

Therapeutic agents typically act by occluding dentinal tubules to stop fluid flow (hydrodynamic theory), desensitizing intradental nerves, or inducing the formation of tertiary dentin to protect the pulp.