Dental alveolus

Dental Alveolus

The dental alveolus is a socket in the alveolar process of the maxilla or mandible where the roots of the teeth are held. The dental alveoli are separated by thin bony walls called interalveolar septa.

Anatomy

The dental alveolus is a part of the tooth socket, which is a component of the alveolar process of the jaw. The alveolar process is the thickened ridge of bone that contains the tooth sockets on bones that hold teeth. In humans, the tooth-bearing bones are the maxilla and the mandible.

The dental alveolus is lined by a periodontal ligament, also known as the periodontal membrane. This ligament is a group of specialized connective tissue fibers that essentially attach a tooth to the alveolar bone within its socket.

Function

The primary function of the dental alveolus is to hold and support the teeth. The dental alveolus, along with the periodontal ligament, helps to keep the teeth securely in place. It also plays a role in the distribution of forces produced during chewing and biting, which helps to prevent damage to the teeth and jaw.

Clinical significance

Dental alveoli are susceptible to various diseases and conditions. Periodontal disease, for example, can lead to the destruction of the alveolar bone and the periodontal ligament, leading to tooth loss. Other conditions that can affect the dental alveoli include alveolar osteitis, also known as dry socket, and alveolar process fracture.

See also

• Alveolar process
• Periodontal ligament
• Tooth socket
• Maxilla
• Mandible