Pulpal diseases : a correlation of clinical and histological data from human teeth

Thesis (M.Sc.D.)--Boston University, Henry M. Goldman School of Graduate Dentistry, 1978 (Endodontics)Bibliography : leaves 230-246.The purpose of this investigation was to examine human teeth with varying degrees of pulpal disease to determine if a correlation exists between the interpretation of clinical findings and the general histopathological status of the pulp. The clinical diagnoses were based on the results of pulp vitality tests (hot, cold, electric pulp test) and symptomatologic data obtained from careful examination and interviewing the patient. Periapical and bite-wing radiographs were taken in order to assess the condition of the attachment apparatus as well as the crown condition of the involved teeth. The teeth were classified clinically as Normal, Hyperemia, Pulpitis and Pulpless (Necrosis or Acute Alveolar Abcess). The teeth were then extracted, fixed, sectioned, stained and evaluated histologically. Careful histologic examination of these teeth revealed that a strong correlation does exist between a set of defined clinical diagnoses and general stages of pulpal histopathology