Gomphosis (dentoalveolar syndesmosis)

Study entry

Classification

Special fibrous joint (dentoalveolar syndesmosis).

Surfaces

Root of the tooth with the socket of the maxilla or mandible.

Capsule

The periodontium (periodontal membrane), made of collagen fibers between the cementum of the root and the periosteum of the socket, forms an elastic suspension. It has many tactile endings sensitive to pressure, lymphatic capillaries and vessels.

Movements

Almost none: it cushions the pressure of chewing like a hydraulic pad.

Blood supply

The periodontium has abundant vessels. [CHECK: not in Moore] They come from the alveolar arteries.

Innervation

The periodontium has many pressure-sensitive endings. [CHECK: not in Moore] They come from the alveolar nerves.

Source: cap. 1, «Articulaciones fibrosas»; cap. 8, «Dientes»

Other structures in this region

• Stylohyoid ligament
• Pterygospinous ligament
• Thyrohyoid membrane (median and lateral thyrohyoid ligaments)
• Median cricothyroid ligament
• Cricothyroid joint
• Cricoarytenoid joint
• Joints of the auditory ossicles (incudomalleolar and incudostapedial)
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ)