English · Svenska · Deutsch · Español · Latina
Periodontal ligament
A thin layer of fibrous connective tissue between the root cementum and the alveolar bone.
Function
Suspends the tooth in its socket, absorbs chewing forces and provides sensory (proprioceptive) feedback.
Clinical relevance
Its width is typically a fraction of a millimetre. Widening of the ligament space on radiographs can indicate occlusal trauma or disease.
Related structures
This text is a draft and has not yet been reviewed by a dental professional. Educational reference only, not for diagnosis or treatment.