Detection of Lymphatic Vessels in Dental Pulp

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Our studies and results suggest a moderate correlation between pulp inflammation and the formation of new vessels, including lymphatic vessels. In view of the above, it can be concluded that as inflammation increases, the size of the vascular bed that enables circulation of body fluids, blood, and lymph increases as well. However, microscopic and immunohistochemical studies did not conclusively demonstrate if these vessels form systems within the pulp that facilitate drainage of the tooth cavity. ABSTRACT: The literature lacks conclusive evidence that lymphatic vessels can form in the dental pulp. Lymphangiogenesis is believed to occur in an inflamed pulp. If one defines lymphangiogenesis as the development of lymphatic vessels from already existing ones, such a mechanism is possible only when lymphatic vessels are present in healthy teeth. This paper aims to identify lymphatic vessels in the dental pulp using microscopic and immunohistochemical methods under physiological and pathological conditions. The tissue material consisted of human teeth intended for extraction. Our studies and results suggest a moderate correlation between pulp inflammation and the formation of new vessels, including lymphatic vessels.