Dental pulp

This image shows the cellular organization of dental pulp in the crown of this molar. 10x, 800x.

Coronal pulp is contained within the crown of the tooth.

The odontoblastic layer contains odontoblasts, which secrete dentin. This layer also contains nerve fibers that accompany odontoblast processes as they extend into the dentinal tubules. Additionally, this layer contains inflammatory cells to help protect against infection.

The relatively cell-free zone of Weil contains a rich network of capillaries and nerve fibers and is most apparent in coronal pulp

The cell rich zone contains ectomesenchymal stem cells capable of differentiating into dentin-producing odontoblasts in response to the loss of odontoblasts due to trauma or infection (reparative or tertiary dentin). This layer also contains fibroblasts and nerve plexuses.

Radicular pulp is contained within the pulp cavity in the root of the tooth and is continuous with the connective tissue of the periodontal ligament at the apical foramen. An odontoblastic layer, as well as cell free and cell rich zones are also present in the radicular pulp.