Histology of Periodontal Ligament Quiz (ODS Learning Outcomes)

<p>Formation of Hertwig's epithelial root sheath (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To undergo mitotic division and regenerate lost cells (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Heightened production of enamel (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Superior and inferior alveolar arteries (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Sharpey’s fibers in cementum (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Proprioceptive nerve fibers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Alveolar crest group (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Osteoblasts and other connective tissue cells (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Resists vertical masticatory forces (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>It has a rich vascular supply for nutrition (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Trigeminal nerve (V) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>At the tooth root tip (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Resists vertical and lateral movement (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Insert at the alveolar bone apical to the alveolar crest (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Sensory nerves (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Collagen and elastic fibers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To protect nerves and vessels at the apex (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The periodontal ligament (PDL) is a connective tissue surrounding the tooth root, connecting it to the alveolar bone. It's crucial for the tooth's support, sensation, and nutrient supply.

The PDL attaches to the surrounding bone, providing support and keeping the tooth in position. It also acts as a shock absorber during chewing, preventing damage to the tooth and bone.

The PDL contains cells that build and break down bone and cementum, leading to repair and maintenance of the tooth's anchoring structures. This process helps keep the ligament's width consistent.

The PDL acts as a 'periosteum' for both the cementum covering the root and the alveolar bone. It's rich in blood vessels, providing essential nutrients for the tooth and surrounding structures.

The PDL contains nerve fibers that give the tooth its proprioception (sense of position) and allow us to feel pain, touch, pressure, and temperature changes.

During tooth development, cells in the dental follicle become active, producing the Hertwig's Epithelial Root Sheath (HERS). The HERS guides the formation of the tooth root.

The PDL's fibers become organized over time, starting with the gingivodental fibers located near the tooth's crown. These fibers help connect the tooth to the gingiva.

The PDL contains cells responsible for building and breaking down tissues. These include osteoblasts (bone builders), fibroblasts (collagen producers), cementoblasts (cementum builders), and their counterpart resorptive cells.

The PDL also houses epithelial rests of Malassez - remnants of the HERS. These can sometimes cause cysts or tumors, although their purpose remains somewhat mysterious.

The PDL contains mast cells, macrophages, and eosinophils. These cells participate in the immune defense process, protecting the tooth and surrounding tissues from invaders.

The principal blood supply to the periodontal ligament originates from the superior and inferior alveolar arteries, which provide a network of vessels within the ligament.

The periodontal ligament contains both sensory and autonomic nerve fibers, originating from branches of the trigeminal nerve (5th cranial nerve).

The alveolar crest group of fibers runs from the cementum beneath the junctional epithelium to the alveolar crest, preventing extrusion of the tooth.

The horizontal fibers are located in the coronal portion of the periodontal ligament, resisting horizontal tipping forces.

The oblique fibers, the largest group, run obliquely from the cementum to the alveolar bone, resisting vertical forces to prevent tooth intrusion.

Found at the root tip, the apical fibers fan out from the cementum to the socket, resisting vertical pulling and twisting forces.

The interradicular fibers are present in multi-rooted teeth, spanning between the roots to the interradicular septum, resisting vertical and lateral movement.

Proteoglycans and glycoproteins contribute to the ground substance of the periodontal ligament, providing a gel-like matrix for the fibers.

The periodontal ligament is located in the space between the cementum of the tooth root and the alveolar bone, connecting them.

The main function of the periodontal ligament is to support the tooth, providing resistance to various forces, and allowing for slight tooth movement.