Expression of sodium channels in dental pulp

Background: Several isoforms of voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) found in peripheral nerves is associated in the pathogenesis of neuropathic and inflammatory pain. Until now, there are few studies of the distribution of VGSCs in dental pulp and its relationship to dental pain.

Objective: Perform literature review to provide update information of VGSCs in dental pulp.

Methods: We reviewed and discussed seventy-eight articles listed in MEDLINE (PubMed) database using keywords including “sodium channels” and “dental pain”. They are articles published in English from 1978 to 2010.

Results: Although several VGSCs isoforms are distributed in dental pulp, only Na_V1.7, Na_V1.8, and Na_V1.9 have been found to be upregulated in painful pulpitis.

Conclusion: Na_V1.7, Na_V1.8, and Na_V1.9 seem to have key roles in inflammatory dental pain. As a result, they might be the targets to treat dental pulp inflammation.