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Ligament
Dr. Khansa Ababneh
The Periodontal Ligament
The PDL is the connective
tissue that surrounds the root
and attaches it to the alveolar
bone
Physically small,
functionally
Continuous with the
important
connective tissues of the
gingiva and communicates
with marrow spaces in bone
PDL
Subjected to continuous
mechanical loading
Embryonic-like tissue
PDL
Composed of
– Fibres
– Cells
– ECM
– Nerves
– Blood &
lymphatic
vessels
General Functions of PDL
Tooth support
Proprioception
Regulation of alveolar
bone volume
Fibres
Interradicular group
Furcation areas of multirooted teeth
Formation of Principal Fibres
Sharpey’s fibres start to form before cementum and
alveolar bone are mineralised.
Collagen Fibre Bundles
Sharpey’s fibres
At insertion, PDL fibres are fully or
partially mineralised
Different populations
(origin, protein sysnthesis; ALP)
ECM
Collagen
PG
Glycoproteins:
fibronectin, tenascin, undulin
Growth factors
Cytokines
Functions of PDL
☻ Mechanical (physical)
☻ Formative
☻ Nutritive
☻ Sensory
Physical Functions
Protection of vessels and nerves
Tensional theory
Viscoelastic theory
Thixotropic theory
Force Transmission
Vertical forces
Horizontal or tipping
forces
Axis of rotation
During normal function
During orthodontic treatment
Normal Jiggling Forces
Widened PDL After Occlusal
Adaptation Adjustment