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Sclerotic Dentine — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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ModeratePhysiologySclerotic DentineMFDS Part 1

A ground section from the root of an older adult's tooth shows a translucent zone of dentine with markedly reduced tubular permeability. Which histological process most directly accounts for this finding?

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Correct answer: E — Intratubular mineral deposition causing progressive tubular occlusion

Sclerotic dentine results from progressive mineral deposition within dentinal tubules, together with increased peritubular mineralisation, narrowing or obliterating the tubular lumina and reducing permeability. This produces the translucent appearance of age-related transparent dentine in ground sections; a similar response may occur beneath slowly advancing carious lesions. Acute pulpitis causes pulpal inflammation and altered fluid dynamics rather than orderly tubular occlusion. Rapid active caries predominantly causes demineralisation and bacterial penetration. Orthodontic forces can be associated with external root resorption but do not produce diffuse dentinal sclerosis. Bleaching oxidises chromogens and does not induce intratubular mineralisation.

Reference: Yan W et al. Odontoblast apoptosis and intratubular mineralization of sclerotic dentin with aging. Archives of Oral Biology. 2022;136:105371. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35183920/