Understanding Age Changes In The Pulp: Cells, Fibrosis, And Calcifications

Understanding Age Changes In The Pulp: Cells, Fibrosis, And Calcifications

Describe briefly about age changes in the pulp.
Answer:

Age changes in pulp:

1. Cell changes:

• There is a reduction in the number and size of cells and cellular organelles.
• Fibroblasts exhibit less perinuclear cytoplasm and possess long, thin cytoplasmic processes.

2. Fibrosis:

• Accumulation of diffuse fibrillar components as well as bundles of collagen fibers appear.
• The increase in the fibers in the pulp organ is gradual and generalized.

3. Vascular changes:

• Atherosclerotic plaques may appear in pulpal vessels.
• The outer diameter of vessel walls increases.
• Calcifications occur in surrounding vessels.
• Endothelium shows numerous pinocytic vesicles, microvesicles, and microfilaments.

4. Pulp stones or denticles:

• They are nodular, calcified masses appearing in the coronal and radicular pulp.
• They are asymptomatic unless they impinge on nerves or blood vessels.

5. Other changes:

• Diffuse calcifications are usually found in the root canal.
• The pulp becomes smaller in size due to successive layers of secondary dentin formation.
• Reduction in size of apical foramen occurs
• Reduction in pulpal sensitivity due to nerve degeneration.
• Pulp shows a reduced resistance to infection due to a reduction in cells.