Periodontal ligament

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

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

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

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

• Periodontitis
• Tooth extraction
• Alveolar process
• Cementum

Periodontal ligament Resources
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References

External links

• Periodontal Ligament at the US National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)