Tooth nerves are more than pain sensors, study finds
ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN: A groundbreaking study by the University of Michigan (U-M) School of Dentistry has discovered that tooth nerves play a protective role beyond detecting pain, reshaping how researchers understand oral health and tooth regeneration.
From pain sensors to protectors
Published in Cell Reports, the study revealed that sensory neurons inside teeth are multitaskers. These nerves can trigger a rapid jaw-opening reflex within 5 to 15 milliseconds, protecting teeth from fractures and further damage long before the sensation of pain occurs.
Dr. Joshua Emrick, senior author and assistant professor at U-M, explained:
“When we consider regenerating a tooth pulp, we need to bring back the nerves. Our study challenges the assumption that tooth nerves only signal pain.”
Intradental neurons: guardians of dental health
Researchers used advanced live imaging and genetic labeling tools in mouse models to track myelinated sensory neurons. They identified high-threshold mechano-nociceptors (HTMRs), highly specialized neurons that detect dangerous forces on teeth.
Key findings:
- HTMRs trigger rapid reflexes to protect teeth before conscious pain is felt.
- Nerves actively monitor both the tooth pulp and enamel, serving as internal guardians.
- Protective reflexes explain why people stop chewing immediately after biting a hard object, preventing tooth fractures.
Implications for regenerative dentistry
The discovery has profound implications for dental research, tooth regeneration, and pulp therapies. According to Dr. Emrick, integrating functional nerves into regenerative treatments will be vital for restoring not only sensitivity but also the protective reflexes that keep teeth safe.
A shift in dental science
The study highlights a new perspective:
- Tooth nerves are not just pain alarms but safety systems.
- Future tooth pulp regeneration therapies must restore nerve function.
The findings could influence treatments for tooth injuries, restorative dentistry, and biomaterial design.
The research team combined expertise from dentistry, sensory neuroscience, and mechanical engineering, making it a strong example of cross-disciplinary collaboration in oral health science.
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