TUBULUS DENTALIS Meaning and
Definition
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Tubulus dentalis, commonly known as dental tubules, refers to the microscopic, tube-like structures found within the dentin of a tooth. Dentin is the hard, calcified tissue that forms the bulk of the tooth structure and lies beneath the enamel and cementum. These tubules are responsible for transmitting stimuli and sensations from the tooth's surface to the dental pulp, which comprises nerves and blood vessels within the core of the tooth.
Dental tubules can vary in size and number depending on the tooth's location and stage of development. They are typically around 1-3 micrometers in diameter and extend from the outer surface of the dentin towards the pulp chamber. The tubules are arranged in a three-dimensional network, running perpendicular to the surface of the tooth. They can be densely packed in some areas and more widely spaced in others.
The tubules are lined with odontoblastic processes, which are long, thin extensions of specialized cells called odontoblasts. These cells reside in the layer adjacent to the pulp chamber and are responsible for dentin formation. The odontoblastic processes within the tubules are directly involved in the transmission of mechanical, thermal, and chemical stimuli to the dental pulp, where they are interpreted as pain or sensitivity.
The presence of dental tubules is a crucial feature in understanding tooth sensitivity and certain dental procedures, such as the placement of dental fillings or the application of desensitizing agents. Dental professionals rely on their knowledge of tubulus dentalis to address issues related to tooth sensitivity and provide appropriate treatment options.
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Dentinal tubule, canaliculus dentalis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TUBULUS DENTALIS
Etymology of TUBULUS DENTALIS
The etymology of the word "tubulus dentalis" is as follows:
1. Tubulus: The word "tubulus" is Latin for "little tube" or "small pipe". It derives from the Latin word "tubus", meaning "tube" or "pipe".
2. Dentalis: The word "dentalis" is derived from the Latin word "dens", meaning "tooth". It pertains to anything relating to teeth.
Therefore, "tubulus dentalis" refers to the "dental tube" or "tube of the tooth". This term may be used in reference to the microscopic tubules found in dentin, the hard tissue beneath the enamel of teeth.
