Pulp Stone
A calcified mass within the pulp chamber or root canal, visible on dental radiographs as a discrete radiopaque body within the pulp space.
Full Definition
Pulp stones, also called denticles, are dystrophic calcifications that form within the dental pulp. They may be attached to the dentinal wall (attached), free-floating within the pulp tissue (free), or embedded within secondary dentine (embedded). On periapical and bitewing radiographs, they appear as discrete radiopaque foci within the pulp chamber or canal space. Their presence can complicate endodontic access and instrumentation, and editors must distinguish the singular 'pulp stone' from 'pulp calcification,' which is a broader term encompassing diffuse calcific changes.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'pulp stone' as two words, not hyphenated. Distinguish from 'pulp canal obliteration,' which refers to progressive narrowing of the canal lumen rather than a discrete calcified body.
In Context
- "A well-defined radiopaque pulp stone was noted within the pulp chamber of the upper right first molar on the periapical radiograph." — Periapical radiograph report
- "The presence of multiple pulp stones across the dentition may indicate an underlying systemic condition and should be noted in the radiographic report." — Clinical guidelines document