Light and Electron Microscope Evaluation of Changes Induced in Odontoblasts of the Rat Incisor by the High-Speed Drill

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Abstract
This report establishes the normal fine structural appearance of the rat odontoblast and studies the effects of the high speed drill upon this cell type. The normal odontoblast presents 4 distinct zones histologically. These zones may indicate a physiologic polarity to the cell. The morphologic changes which occur within the odontoblast following the experimental procedure may be the result primarily of protein denaturation. The possible causative factors appear to be heat (due to lack of effective cooling or to friction from manual pressure) and mechanical vibration. The morphologic changes in some cells proceed to destruction which necessitates replacement. No mitotic activity occurs within the odontoblastic layer; replacement may be a result of differentiation of undifferentiated pulp cells.

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