parodontium

Parodontium, also called the periodontium in dental anatomy, refers to the group of tissues that surround and support teeth. It comprises the gingiva (gums), the periodontal ligament, cementum, and the alveolar bone. These structures form a functional unit around each tooth and, together with the tooth, constitute the dentogingival complex.

The gingiva covers the marginal and attached regions around teeth and forms the gingival sulcus at the tooth margin. The periodontal ligament is a dense fibrous connective tissue that anchors cementum to the alveolar bone, cushions forces during chewing, and helps transmit load to the surrounding bone. Cementum is a calcified tissue that covers the tooth root and provides attachment for the periodontal ligament fibers. The alveolar bone forms the tooth socket (alveolus) and undergoes remodeling in response to mechanical loads and health status.

Functions of the parodontium include attaching teeth to the jaw, distributing and absorbing occlusal forces, and protecting the underlying bone from excessive stress. The health and integrity of the parodontium are essential for tooth stability and function, and are maintained through oral hygiene, plaque control, and regular dental care.

Clinically, diseases of the parodontium include gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums without attachment loss, while periodontitis involves inflammation with progressive loss of connective tissue attachment and alveolar bone, potentially leading to tooth mobility and loss. Risk factors include plaque biofilm, smoking, diabetes, and genetic predisposition. Diagnosis relies on clinical probing, radiographs, and assessment of attachment and bone levels. Treatment focuses on infection control, preservation of tooth support, and may involve nonsurgical therapy, surgical procedures, regeneration, and long-term maintenance.