Session 3: Alveolar Bone

Question 1

Discuss general characteristics of alveolar bone.

Answer 1

• Formed during fetal growth, consisting of calcified matrix with osteocytes (bone cells) which originate from osteoblasts
• Continual changes; however, retains same approximate form throughout life
• Balance between deposition by osteoblasts and resorption by osteoclasts (renewal and remodelling)

Question 2

Define the alveolar process and describe the layers that compose it

Answer 2

Function: Forms the bony sockets that provide support and protection for the roots of the teeth.
Composed of:
• Alveolar bone proper (cribriform plate)- inner socket wall of thin, compact bone
• Supporting alveolar bone- consists of cancellous bone, facial (outer cortical) and lingual (inner cortical) plates of compact bone

Question 3

Define alveolus

Question 4

Explain the function of the alveolar bone in the periodontium

Question 5

Describe the characteristics of cortical versus cancellous (spongy) bone

Question 6

Define alveolar crest and explain its appearance on radiographs

Question 7

Describe the periosteum and its function

Question 8

List factors that can affect the alveolar bone