The term "periodontium" refers to the tissues and structures that surround and support the teeth, such as the gums, bone, and ligaments. The spelling of this word can be confusing, as it contains a combination of vowels and consonants that aren't typically found in English words. Specifically, the word has a long "o" sound followed by a short "o" sound, both of which are denoted in the IPA phonetic transcription as /oʊ/ and /ə/. This unique combination of sounds makes the spelling of "periodontium" somewhat challenging to remember.
The term "periodontium" refers to the collective structures that surround and support the teeth. It encompasses all the tissues and structures that contribute to the anchorage, well-being, and maintenance of teeth within the oral cavity. The periodontium plays a pivotal role in dental health, providing support, protection, and stability to the teeth.
The periodontium comprises several important components, including the gingiva (gums), alveolar bone, periodontal ligament, and cementum. The gingiva is the soft tissue that covers the necks of the teeth and helps protect the underlying structures. The alveolar bone is the specialized bone that surrounds and holds the teeth in place. The periodontal ligament is a network of fibers that connects the tooth root to the surrounding bone, providing shock absorption and tooth stability. Lastly, cementum is a specialized calcified tissue that covers the root surface, aiding in tooth attachment.
Periodontium conditions, such as periodontal disease, can have significant implications on oral health. If untreated, this inflammatory condition can lead to the destruction of the tooth-supporting structures, resulting in tooth loss. Proper oral hygiene practices, regular dental check-ups, and prompt treatment of periodontal issues are crucial in maintaining the health and integrity of the periodontium.
Peridental membrane, alveolodental membrane, dental periosteum, pericementum; the membrane lining the alveolar cavity and covering the root of the tooth.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "periodontium" is derived from two Latin words: "peri", which means "around", and "odontos", which means "tooth". Hence, "periodontium" refers to the tissues that surround and support the teeth, including the gums, alveolar bone, periodontal ligament, and cementum.