DENTINAL SHEATH Meaning and
Definition
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The dentinal sheath refers to a thin layer or covering of dentin that surrounds the pulp tissue within a tooth. Dentin is a hard tissue found beneath the enamel and cementum and forms the majority of the tooth structure. It is composed of mineralized connective tissue and contains tiny tubules that house nerve endings, allowing for the transmission of sensory stimuli.
The dentinal sheath acts as a protective barrier, separating the pulp tissue from the surrounding dental structures. Its main function is to prevent bacteria, toxins, and other harmful substances from penetrating and injuring the pulp. This layer of dentin also provides support and structural integrity to the tooth, contributing to its overall strength.
The dentinal sheath is formed during tooth development, specifically in the dentinogenesis phase, where odontoblasts (specialized cells) in the dental pulp secrete dentin matrix around them. As new layers of dentin are laid down, the dentinal sheath continues to form and envelop the pulp tissue.
In cases of dental decay or trauma, the dentinal sheath may become compromised, leading to increased sensitivity and potential pulp inflammation. Dentists often take this into consideration when diagnosing and treating dental conditions, as a damaged dentinal sheath can significantly impact the long-term health of the tooth.
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Neumann's sheath; a layer of tissue very resistant to the action of acids, which forms the walls of the d. tubules.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DENTINAL SHEATH
- dentinal sheatx
- dentinal sheatl
- dentinal sheati
- dentinnalsheath
- d entinal sheath
- de ntinal sheath
- den tinal sheath
- dent inal sheath
- denti nal sheath
- dentin al sheath
- dentina l sheath
- dentinal s heath
- dentinal sh eath
- dentinal she ath
- dentinal shea th
- dentinal sheat h
Etymology of DENTINAL SHEATH
The word "dentinal" is derived from the noun "dentin", which refers to the hard, calcified tissue found beneath the enamel and cementum in teeth. The term "dentinal" describes anything related to dentin.
The word "sheath" is borrowed from Old English "sceath", which originally referred to a covering or case for a knife or sword. Over time, it has been extended to describe a covering or protective layer for various objects or structures.
Therefore, the term "dentinal sheath" combines "dentinal", relating to dentin, with "sheath", indicating a protective covering or layer for dentin. It is used in dentistry to refer to the sheath-like structure that surrounds dentin in teeth.
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