An Application of Laser Doppler Velocimetry to Mesurement of Pulpal and Periodontal Ligament Blood Flow

Abstract

To measure blood flow in the dental pulp and the periodontal ligament (PL), a Laser Doppler Velocimetry that consists of helium and neon Laser was applied to the canine teeth of dogs and cats.
The following results were obtained:
1. The pulpal blood flow (PBF) could be monitored noninvasively and continuously whenthe distance from the probe to the dental pulp was within 1 mm.According as this distancebecame shoter, PBF showed higher value.
2. Electrical stimulation of the ipsilateral cervical sympathetic nerve induced prompt decrease in PBF according to the frequency of stimulation.
3. To monitor PL blood flow, the labial bone overlying the mandibular canine tooth rootwas pared away, and apical area of PL blood flow was continuously monitored. Whenforce was applied labio-lingually to the incisal edge of the tooth, PL blood flow showedpromptly decrease, and PL blood flow promptly increased when force was applied linguoladiplly. These results indicate that Laser Doppler Velocimetry considered to be availablefor monitoring the pulpal and the periodontal ligament blood flow. (J.Jpn. Soc. Laser Dent. 4: 21-25, 1993 Reprint requests to Dr. Sasano)