Periodontal Anatomy and Periodontitis

Flashcards reviewing dental anatomical structures and differences between a healthy tooth and periodontitis.

Periodontal Ligament (PDL)

A fibrous connective tissue structure that anchors the root of a tooth to the surrounding alveolar bone.

Periodontitis

An inflammatory condition of the periodontium characterized by loss of periodontal ligament (PDL loss) and breakdown of supporting tooth structures compared to a healthy tooth.

Crown

The visible upper portion of the tooth located above the root structure.

Root

The lower portion of the tooth anchored within the alveolar bone.

Cementum

The calcified layer covering the outer surface of the tooth root.

Alveolar Bone

The specialized bone structure that contains the tooth socket and supports the root of the tooth.

Gingival Sulcus

The anatomical space or groove located between the surface of the tooth and the surrounding gum tissue.

Horizontal PDL

Periodontal ligament fibers arranged horizontally beneath the gingival sulcus area connecting cementum to alveolar bone.

Oblique PDL

Periodontal ligament fibers oriented obliquely along the main body of the root between cementum and bone.

Apical PDL

Periodontal ligament fibers located surrounding the apex or tip of the tooth root.

PDL Loss

The detachment or loss of periodontal ligament fibers that occurs during periodontitis.