Periodontal ligament

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Periodontal Ligament

The Periodontal Ligament (PDL) is a group of specialized connective tissue fibers that essentially attach a tooth to the alveolar bone within which it sits. These fibers help the tooth withstand the naturally substantial forces which occur during chewing and remain embedded in the bone.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The periodontal ligament is a fibrous connective tissue that connects the cementum of teeth and the alveolar bone. The ligament is composed of principal fibers, which are categorized based on their orientation and location. These include alveolar crest fibers, horizontal fibers, oblique fibers, apical fibers, and interradicular fibers.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the periodontal ligament is to attach the tooth to the bone. It also serves to transmit occlusal forces to the bone, provide sensory input, supply nutrients to the cells within the ligament, and to remodel the alveolar bone in response to pressure.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Damage to the periodontal ligament often occurs when there is untreated periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss. The ligament can also be damaged during tooth extraction procedures.

See also[edit | edit source]

Periodontal ligament Resources
Wikipedia


References[edit | edit source]


External links[edit | edit source]




WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD