Evaluation of dentinal tubules of dentin of the roots of necrotic teeth by means of scanning electron microscope

Abstract Introduction Dentin is porous due to existence of tubules, containing cell knobs and nerve fibers. It forms integral part of the tooth. Aim The aim of the study was measurement of the width of dentinal tubules of the roots of necrotic teeth with chronic periapical inflammation after endodontic treatment as well as differences related to age and gender. Material and methods The study comprised 53 teeth (30 molars, 23 premolars) extracted at the Oral Surgery Department, Medical University of Lublin. The teeth were divided into two groups: 40 teeth extracted because of periapical lesions, 15 of which had been treated endodontically before, and the control group of 13 healthy teeth extracted for orthodontic reasons. Scanning electron microscope was used to evaluate the construction of dentinal tubules. The diameter of dentinal tubules was measured close to the cementum and near the dentinocemental junction. Results and discussion The study demonstrated larger diameter of dentinal tubules in necrotic teeth roots compared to the width of tubules of vital teeth. In the control group the mean tubule diameter near the cement was 1.38 μm, and nearby the root canal 3.10 μm. In the group of devitalised teeth the average diameter measured in the same position amounted to 3.68 μm and 4.89 μm. Conclusions The width of dentinal tubules of necrotic teeth was significantly higher compared to the teeth with vital pulp. Endodontic treatment does not change the width of dentinal tubules. The width of dentinal tubules does not depend on age and gender.