Cavity preparation can lead to pulp irritation through several effects on the pulp tissue. The pulp may exhibit structural changes like displacement of odontoblastic nuclei or transection of processes. Vascular changes include reduced blood flow and hemorrhaging. Inflammatory changes can also occur in the absence of bacteria, and may result in pulpal necrosis or formation of reparative dentine. The speed, heat, pressure, and coolant used during cavity preparation can all potentially irritate the pulp. Understanding these pulp reactions to cavity preparation allows dentists to select appropriate restorative techniques.

1. Effect of Cavity
Preparation On
Dental Pulp
Idowu J.T

2. Introduction
• The Pulp is a highly vascular connective tissue that
occupies the centre of the tooth ( Pulp Cavity)
• The Pulp contains nerves, fibroblasts, macrophages,
intracellular substances and blood vessels. It is
surrounded by dentine
• Cavity preparation however can lead to pulp irritation
with different effects.

3. Effects
• Pulp reaction to cavity preparation is a major concern in
restorative dentistry.
• Effect of cavity preparation leads to pulpitis.
• Speed, heat, pressure and coolant may all cause pulp
irritation .
• Pulp Reactivity to cavity preparation may be structural,
vascular and Inflammatory

4. Effects
• Structural changes involves displacement of the
odontoblastic nuclei into the dentinal vestibules.
• Includes transection of odontoblastic process
• Vascular changes includes reduced blood flow,
haemorrhages in wide areas, interstitial oedema,
vascular stasis.
• Inflammatory changes includes reactions even In the
absence of bacteria.
• Pulpal necrosis which could be liquefactive or
coagulative
• Formation of reparative dentine
• Hypersensitivity of pulp

5. • Effect of Cavity Preparations could complicate existing
pulpitis
• Thickness of surrounding dentine and nature of dentine
can determine the pulp’s reaction to restorative
materials.
• A good knowledge of pulp reactions to cavity preparation
will enable the dentist know appropriate restorative
techniques to be employed.
• Employ cavity liners before cavity prep
• Thanks for listening.

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