← All explanationsPeriodontium

What holds a tooth in the jaw?

The periodontium consists of the gums, root cementum, periodontal ligament and surrounding alveolar bone. These tissues protect and anchor a natural tooth. Fibres suspend it; it is not rigidly fused to the bone.

For dental trainees & teams

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Four tissues work together

Gums, root cementum, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone make up the periodontium. The gums are the most visible part.

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Fibres provide the connection

Fine fibres within the periodontal ligament connect the root surface to the socket. This differs from the direct bone contact of an implant.

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Inflammation can damage support

Periodontitis can damage supporting tissues and bone. Examination clarifies the areas affected; appearance alone is insufficient.

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At a glance

What is included?

Gums, root cementum, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone.

How is the tooth anchored?

Supporting fibres connect the natural root to the bone of the tooth socket.

When does this matter clinically?

For example with gum inflammation, deep pockets or looseness. Examination assesses whether support has been damaged.

Knowledge in motion

Explained in 36 seconds.

Three steps. Straight to the point.
Explanations are also shown on screen.

Short film (German): What holds a tooth in the jaw?

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Silent film in German · English explanations in the three views above

Often confused

Gums or periodontium?

The gums are one part of the periodontium. Periodontitis can also damage the deeper tissues anchoring the tooth.

Quick answers

Does the term only mean gums?

No. It also includes root cementum, the periodontal ligament and the bone of the socket.

Is a tooth fused to the bone?

Normally not. The periodontal ligament and its fibres lie between them.

Can I check the condition in a mirror?

Only to a limited extent. Assessment includes gums, pockets and, where needed, X-ray findings.

At the practice

For your consultation

A question to discuss with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:

How healthy is the support around my teeth, and which findings show this?

At the practice, the findings, personal wishes and possible next steps are discussed through a consultation and examination.

Bleeding, gum recession or tooth looseness should be assessed by a dental professional.

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Meet Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour

Learning for dental trainees & teamsUnderstand clinical terms and build your knowledge

Build on the simple explanation with clinical terms, key distinctions and a knowledge question.

Periodontium: The tissues supporting and protecting a tooth.
Periodontal ligament: Fibrous tissue between the tooth root and socket.
Alveolar bone: The bone that forms the tooth sockets.

Know the difference

A natural tooth is supported by fibres; an osseointegrated implant has direct contact with bone.

Knowledge questionWhich group consists entirely of periodontal tissues?

This question supports learning. It does not assess personal symptoms.

Enamel, pulp and saliva.
Gums, root cementum, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone.
Tongue, palate and lips.

Show answer and explanation

Gums, root cementum, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone.

These four tissues together form the protective and anchoring surroundings of the tooth.

Sources for further learning

Sources and context

Editorial research: 23 October 2026. This explanation covers general principles and does not replace a personal examination. Suitable treatment is discussed following individual assessment.