Foramen apicis dentis

Foramen apicis dentis

Latin	Foramen apicis dentis
Part of	Teeth
System	Dental anatomy

The foramen apicis dentis is a small anatomical structure found in teeth. It is located at the tip or apex of the root of a tooth. This foramen serves as a critical passageway through which nerves and blood vessels enter the tooth to supply the dental pulp, which is the central part of the tooth containing connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves.

Structure

The foramen apicis dentis is typically found at the very tip of the tooth's root, but its exact position can vary slightly among different teeth and individuals. It is surrounded by cementum, which is the mineralized tissue covering the root of the tooth.

Function

The primary function of the foramen apicis dentis is to allow the passage of nerves and blood vessels into the tooth. These nerves and vessels are crucial for the vitality of the tooth, providing nutrients and sensory functions. The nerves that pass through the foramen apicis dentis are responsible for transmitting pain and other sensory signals to the brain.

Clinical significance

The position and size of the foramen apicis dentis are important in dental procedures, particularly in endodontic therapy (root canal treatment). Accurate knowledge of its location helps dentists in effectively removing infected or inflamed pulp tissue and in ensuring that the entire root canal system is properly cleaned and sealed. Variations in the size or position of the foramen can pose challenges during these procedures.

See also

• Tooth development
• Human tooth
• Endodontic therapy