The hypoxia-dependent angiogenic process in dental pulp.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: In this review, we analyzed the existing literature to elucidate how the hypoxia-dependent angiogenic processes work in dental pulp. Angiogenesis is an essential biological process in the maturation and homeostasis of teeth. It involves multiple sequential steps such as endothelial cell proliferation and migration, cell-to-cell contact, and tube formation. HIGHLIGHT Clinical implications of understanding the process of angiogenesis include how the mineralization processes of dental pulp occur and how dental pulp maintains its homeostasis, preventing irreversible inflammation or necrosis. CONCLUSION: The angiogenesis process in dental pulp regulates adequate concentrations of oxygen required for mineralization in root development and defense mechanisms against chronic stimuli.