Zahnfuß

Zahnfuß is a term used in German dental anatomy to denote the region of the tooth that provides anchorage in the jaw. It refers to the tooth’s root apparatus within the dental alveolus, that is, the socket in the jawbone that houses the root.

Anatomically, the Zahnfuß includes the tooth root covered by cementum, the periodontal ligament that suspends the root in the socket, and the surrounding alveolar bone, part of which is called the lamina dura on radiographs. The tooth is anchored to the jaw by the periodontal ligament, which acts as a viscoelastic connective tissue that absorbs occlusal forces and allows limited movement.

Development and function: The root forms from the dental follicle during development, and eruption places the tooth in occlusion. The cementum, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone together form a functional unit that retains the tooth and distributes functional loads.

Clinical relevance: Pathologies affecting the Zahnfuß, such as periodontal disease or trauma, can compromise tooth stability and lead to mobility or tooth loss. Diagnostics often focus on changes in the alveolar bone, the integrity of the lamina dura, and the condition of the periodontal ligament. Treatments aim to preserve or restore the Zahnfuß through hygiene measures, periodontal therapy, regenerative procedures, or, if necessary, extraction with appropriate replacement options.

In summary, the Zahnfuß describes the supportive tooth region within the jaw that secures the tooth root through the cementum, periodontal ligament, and surrounding alveolar bone.