The periodontal ligament (PDL) holds the root of a tooth in the bone. The bone around a tooth root is called alveolar bone. Like all ligaments, it's made of tough fibrous connective tissue that surrounds the root and is about a quarter to a tenth of a millimeter thick. It can be seen on dental x-rays as a black line surrounding the root. Abnormally widening is a sign of overloading and trauma from tooth grinding or a biting irregularity.

          There are groups of fibers in the periodontal ligament that run in several different directions to support the tooth when you bite in different directions. The PDL acts like a shock absorber and transmits chewing forces from the tooth to the bone. It gives a little, like a water bed, so that the tooth can move in its socket. When alveolar bone is lost from gum disease, the total amount of PDL tissue holding the tooth is reduced and the tooth become increasingly loose. Loose teeth are a bad sign.

          The periodontal ligament feels and sends pressure information to the brain when you bite. The PDL also feels pain. It tells the brain when you are biting down and the information is used to coordinate chewing. A tight ligament around the tooth also prevents bacterial invasion. A healthy PDL also protects the nerves and blood vessels contained in the area.

          The periodontal ligament actually attaches to a hard coating over the tooth root called cementum. If the PDL is lost for some reason, the cementum becomes exposed and acts as a surface for calculus, with associated bacteria, to stick on. This exposure contaminates the surface of the tooth and cause a number of problems. The dentists of the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. If you wish to schedule a free dental consultation with Atlanta Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, call 404-874-7428.