1 Periodontium: The Tooth Supporting Structures

A series of flashcards covering key concepts regarding the structures and functions of the periodontium and related dental anatomy.

What is the Periodontium?

A functional system of tissues that surrounds teeth and attaches them to the jawbone.

What is another name for the Periodontium?

Supporting tissues of teeth or attachment apparatus.

What are the four structures of the Periodontium?

Gingiva, periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone.

What function does the Gingiva serve?

Provides a tissue seal around the cervical portion of the tooth and protects underlying structures.

What is the purpose of the periodontal ligament?

Suspends and maintains the tooth in its socket, absorbing mechanical loads.

What role does Cementum play in the Periodontium?

Covers the surface of the root, protects the dentin, and anchors periodontal ligament fibers.

What characterizes healthy gingival color?

Pale or light coral pink.

What is the Gingival Sulcus?

A V-shaped shallow space between free gingiva and the tooth surface.

What is the function of Interdental Gingiva?

Fills the space between adjacent teeth and prevents food from packing.

What is Attached Gingiva?

The tissue that is tightly bound to the underlying cementum and alveolar bone.

How deep is a clinically healthy gingival sulcus?

1 to 3 mm deep.

What does the periodontal ligament connect?

Connects the tooth root to the bony walls of the tooth socket.

What are the two types of Cementum?

Acellular and cellular cementum.

What is the function of alveolar bone?

Surrounds and supports the roots of teeth.

What is the primary artery supplying the periodontal tissues?

Maxillary artery.

What is the role of lymph nodes in the periodontal system?

They filter out and trap bacteria, fungi, and viruses.