Dentine Tubule
Microscopic fluid-filled channels radiating through dentine from the pulp chamber to the enamel–dentine junction, relevant to adhesion and hypersensitivity.
Full Definition
Dentine tubules are cylindrical microchannels, approximately 1–4 µm in diameter, that traverse the dentine matrix and contain odontoblastic processes and dentinal fluid. Their density and diameter increase closer to the pulp, which significantly affects adhesive penetration and bond strength values. In dental materials literature, their orientation and patency are discussed in relation to smear layer formation, resin tag infiltration, and post-operative sensitivity. Editors should ensure that 'dentine tubule' is not conflated with 'dentinal tubule' — both spellings appear in the literature, with the former preferred in British English contexts. The term is central to bonding agent mechanism descriptions.
Usage
Usage note: British English prefers 'dentine tubule'; American English commonly uses 'dentinal tubule.' Flag inconsistency within a single document. Do not write 'enamel tubule' — enamel contains no tubules.
In Context
- "The SEM images clearly showed resin tag penetration into the dentine tubules to a depth of approximately 20 µm." — Research article results section
- "Copy-editors should note that 'dentinal tubule' and 'dentine tubule' are equivalent; the house style favours the latter." — Journal editorial policy note