Supporting structures of the periodontium

Question 1

What are they?

Answer 1

those lying around the roots of the teeth which hold them in their sockets. their hold allows the teeth to ‘bounce’ in their sockets so that there is some shock absorption effect when teeth are used for chewing - prevents fracture

Question 2

Alveolar bone

Answer 2

specialised ridge of bone over the bony arch of each jaw, where the teeth sit in their sockets

Question 3

Gingiva

Answer 3

specialised soft tissue covering of the alveolar processes, that are also in attachment with the teeth at their necks

Question 4

Periodontal ligament

Answer 4

connective tissue attachment between the tooth + alveolar bone

Question 5

Cementum

Answer 5

hard tissue covering of the root that anchors the periodontal ligament to the tooth