Which color is associated with pulp canal obliteration (PCO)?

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Multiple Choice

Which color is associated with pulp canal obliteration (PCO)?

Pulp canal obliteration occurs when mineralized tissue fills the pulp chamber and canals after trauma or with aging, gradually narrowing the canal space. This calcification changes how the tooth looks, most often producing a yellow-brown discoloration that is characteristic of PCO. The color reflects the sclerotic dentin and deposited calcified material beneath the enamel. Other colors point to different processes—gray-black is more typical of pulp necrosis or darkened dentin from necrotic tissue, pink is associated with internal resorption or revascularization, and blue can be seen with tetracycline staining. So the classic association for pulp canal obliteration is yellow-brown discoloration.

Pulp canal obliteration occurs when mineralized tissue fills the pulp chamber and canals after trauma or with aging, gradually narrowing the canal space. This calcification changes how the tooth looks, most often producing a yellow-brown discoloration that is characteristic of PCO. The color reflects the sclerotic dentin and deposited calcified material beneath the enamel. Other colors point to different processes—gray-black is more typical of pulp necrosis or darkened dentin from necrotic tissue, pink is associated with internal resorption or revascularization, and blue can be seen with tetracycline staining. So the classic association for pulp canal obliteration is yellow-brown discoloration.

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