Dentinal tubule and dentin mineral surface

Dentinal tubules are microscopic, fluid-filled channels that radiate from the dental pulp through the dentin to the enamel or cementum boundaries (Source: StatPearls, 2023). These tubules contain odontoblastic processes and are the primary conduits for fluid movement, which, according to the hydrodynamic theory, triggers pulpal nerve fibers to cause dentin hypersensitivity (Source: Journal of Conservative Dentistry, 2014). The dentin mineral surface, composed mainly of hydroxyapatite and collagen, serves as the critical interface for therapeutic agents aimed at treating sensitivity and preventing decay. Pharmacological interventions target these structures by either physically occluding the tubule orifices to block fluid flow or by delivering desensitizing agents like potassium ions to the pulpal nerves (Source: Clinical Oral Investigations, 2018). Additionally, remineralization strategies focus on the dentin mineral surface to restore lost mineral content and provide a protective barrier against bacterial invasion and acid erosion (Source: Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry, 2017).

Other names

Dentinal canaliculiDentin tubulesHydroxyapatite surfacePeritubular dentinIntertubular dentin

Physical occlusion of dentinal tubules, depolarization of pulpal nerve fibers, and induction of mineral precipitation on the hydroxyapatite surface.