Anatomy of the Periodontium Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of cementum related to the periodontal ligament?

To anchor the tooth to the bone (correct)

To facilitate tooth movement

To provide nutrition to the root

To enhance tooth color

What is the function of the alveolar process?

Functions as a unit and is tooth dependent (correct)

Remains static regardless of tooth health

Acts solely as a support structure for gums

Directly influences tooth mobility

What type of cementum is formed primarily during the eruption of the tooth?

Cementum with Sharpey’s fibres

Acellular cementum

Cellular/secondary cementum (correct)

Primary cementum

Which component does NOT form part of the alveolar process?

Dentin Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the alveolar process?

To serve as a support system for the teeth Signup and view all the answers

What occurs to the alveolar process when teeth are lost?

It undergoes slow resorption Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic of cementum contributes to maintaining the integrity of the tooth under orthodontic forces?

It is acellular and does not resorb Signup and view all the answers

Where does the alveolar crest typically lie in a healthy situation?

2-3mm apical to the CEJ Signup and view all the answers

How does cementum help with occlusal relationships?

By maintaining a balance between attrition and eruption Signup and view all the answers

What is true about the trabecular bone in the mandible compared to the maxilla?

It is less trabecular bone in the mandible Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the masticatory mucosa?

Assist in mastication through friction Signup and view all the answers

Which type of mucosa covers areas such as the lips and the floor of the mouth?

Lining mucosa Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the periodontal ligament?

To anchor the tooth to the alveolar bone Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the free marginal gingiva from attached gingiva?

It is not attached to the underlying bone. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a component of the periodontal ligament?

Enamel matrix Signup and view all the answers

What function do the major fiber bundles of the gingiva serve?

Support the attachment of the gingiva to the teeth Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the gingiva is described as being potentially stippled?

Attached gingiva Signup and view all the answers

What type of nerves are found within the periodontal ligament?

Sensory and autonomic nerves Signup and view all the answers

How does the periodontal ligament respond to forces applied to teeth?

It transmits the forces to the alveolar bone Signup and view all the answers

What separates the root surface from the alveolar bone?

The periodontal ligament space Signup and view all the answers

What type of mucosa primarily consists of taste buds?

Specialized mucosa Signup and view all the answers

The alveologingival fiber bundles serve which purpose?

Provide attachment of the gingiva to the alveolar bone Signup and view all the answers

Which region does NOT contain keratinized tissue?

Lining mucosa Signup and view all the answers

What factors can influence the width of the periodontal ligament?

Age, location of tooth, and degree of stress Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Periodontal Anatomy and Function

Periodontal disease involves the supporting structures around the teeth.
The term ‘periodontal’ refers to the tissues surrounding the teeth; "peri" means around, and "odont" means tooth.
The periodontium serves to attach teeth to the alveolar bone, supporting masticatory functions and accommodating lateral movements.

Tissues of the Periodontium

Composed of soft tissues in the oral cavity including:
- Oral Mucosa: A moist membrane lining the inside of the mouth.
  - Masticatory Mucosa: 25% of total oral mucosa; found in hard palate and gingiva, attached to the underlying bone.
  - Specialized Mucosa: 15% of oral mucosa; located on the dorsum of the tongue with numerous taste buds for taste sensation.
  - Lining Mucosa: 60% of total oral mucosa; includes structures like lips and soft palate, is movable, non-keratinized, and flexible.

Gingiva Structure and Functions

Visible part of the oral cavity; covers the teeth at or above the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ).
Morphological divisions include:
- Free (Marginal) Gingiva: Not attached, surrounds the tooth.
- Attached Gingiva: Firmly bound to the underlying bone.
- Interdental Papillae: Fills the gaps between teeth.
Functions to attach dental hard tissues to the oral mucosa and protect periodontal tissues from bacteria.

Fibre Bundles in Gingiva

Five main fibre bundles provide support and connection:
- Dentogingival: Supports free and attached gingiva.
- Alveologingival: Attaches gingiva to the alveolar bone.
- Dento-periosteal: Provides anchorage from cementum to bone crest.
- Circular group: Encircles the tooth for additional support.
- Transeptal group: Connects adjacent teeth.

Periodontal Ligament (PDL)

Specialized connective tissue attaching tooth roots to alveolar bone.
Consists of collagen fibres, blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves, typically measuring 0.2 mm in width.
Functions include:
- Tooth mobility, anchorage, shock absorption, and sensation (touch, pain, proprioception).

Cementum

Mineralized tissue covering tooth roots; less resorbed than bone.
Contains Sharpey's fibres anchoring PDL to the root surface; avascular and can regenerate.
Functions include anchorage, maintenance of PDL width, and repair of root fractures.

Alveolar Bone

Thickened ridge containing tooth sockets; specialized structure supports teeth.
Comprises three components:
- Alveolus/cribriform plate (tooth socket)
- Compact bone (facial and lingual plates)
- Trabecular bone (marrow bone between plates).
Constantly remodels in response to physiological stress, maintaining relationships with adjacent structures.

General Characteristics of Periodontium

Periodontal structures are intricately linked, serving to maintain tooth integrity, support function, and adapt to various mechanical stresses.
Healthy alveolar crest is typically located 2-3 mm apical to the CEJ, with bone remodeling being a normal process influenced by activity and stress levels.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the anatomy and functions of the periodontium. This quiz delves into the supporting structures and tissues of the periodontium, along with their roles in maintaining oral health and functionality. Perfect for students in oral medicine and periodontology.