Documenti di Didattica
Documenti di Professioni
Documenti di Cultura
OF
ORAL HISTOLOGY
Prepared by :
D. Akram Nasser Juaim
Table of content
- Chapter 1 : teeth development.
- Chapter 2 : enamel.
- chapter 3 : dentin.
- chapter4 : pulp.
- chapter5 : cementum .
- chapter6 : periodontal ligaments .
- chapter7 : teeth eruption .
- chapter8 : oral cavity .
- chapter9 : salivary glands .
- chapter10 : temperomandibular ligaments .
Chapter 1 TEETH
DEVELOPMENT
Chapter 1, Slide 1
Dental lamina
During the fifth week of
embryonic development,
the oral epithelium
thickens along the future
dental arches to form
the dental lamina.
A, dental lamina;
B, Mesenchymal neural
crest
Chapter 1, Slide 2
Bud stage
Around the eighth week of
embryonic development, the
mesenchymal neural crest
induces the development of
tooth
buds at ten locations in
the upper and lower dental
lamina. During the bud stage
the dental lamina grows into
the mesenchyme in the shape
of a bud.
Chapter 1, Slide 3
Cap stage
During the ninth week of embryonic development, the tooth bud
differentiates into a cap-shaped enamel organ extending from the
dental lamina. vestibular lamina develops to separate the gum from
the lip/cheek. During the cap stage, an unequal growth of epithelial
cells grows down to form a concavity around the mesenchyme
forming the dental papilla. Other mesenchymal cells encircle
the enamel organ forming the dental sac.
A, Enamel organ; B, Dental lamina;
C, Vestibular lamina; D, Dental Papilla; E, Dental sac
Cytodifferentiation becomes apparent during the bell stage, when
the epithelial cells outlining the enamel organ can be distinguished
as the inner enamel epithelium and outer enamel epithelium.
The interior of the enamel organ comprises the stellate reticulum,
cushiony layer which will protect the developing tooth.
The successional lamina, which will give rise to the secondary
Tooth, arises from the dental lamina.
A, Inner enamel epithelium; B, Outer enamel epithelium;
C,Stellate reticulum; D, Successional lamina;
E, Dental lamina; F, Dental papilla; G, Dental sac.
Chapter 1, Slide 4
Bell stage
Chapter 1, Slide 5
Cervical loop
The inner enamel epithelium and
outer enamel epithelium joint at the
cervical loop, that portion of the
enamel organ which is growing down
into the mesenchyme.
The cells of the inner enamel
epithelium will eventually become
ameloblasts. The layer adjacent to
the inner enamel epithelium is the
stratum intermedium , and will
become important in transporting
nutrients to the future ameloblasts.
A, Cervical loop;
B, Inner enamel epithelium;
C, Outer enamel epithelium;
D, Stratum intermedium;
E, Stellate reticulum
Chapter 1, Slide 6
Cytodifferentiation of inner enamel
epithelium
The cells of the inner enamel
epithelium (which will become
ameloblasts) are least
differentiated near the cervical
loop and most differentiated near
the incisal cusp of the tooth.
A, Cervical loop;
B, Least differentiated;
C, Most differentiated
Preameloblasts initiate the differentiation of odontoblasts
which arise from cells in the dental papilla. The odontoblasts
are called preodontoblasts before they begin the production of
dentin.
A, Preameloblasts;
B, Preodontoblasts;
C, Stellate reticullum;
D, Dental papilla
Chapter 1, Slide 7
Odontoblastic
differentiation
Mature, elongated odontoblasts begin the deposition of predentin.
This deprives the preameloblasts of their nutritional source
inducing their differentiation into ameloblasts which then begin to deposit
enamel. Predentin is completely organic when it is formed and gradually is
mineralized to form dentin. Enamel is partially mineralized when it is
deposited. Arrows show the direction of movement of ameloblasts and
odontoblasts.
A, Odontoblasts; B, Predentin; C, Ameloblasts;
D, Enamel; E, Dentin
Chapter 1, Slide 8
Deposition of dentin and
enamel
Following the formation of the crown , the enamel organ collapses
to form the reduced enamel epithelium which covers the tooth
through eruption. The reduced enamel epithelium consists of the
mature/protective ameloblasts and remnants of the outer layers of
the enamel organ. Numerous capillaries, which had formed to
supply oxygen and nutrients to the ameloblasts following dentin
formation, surround the reduced enamel epithelium.
A, Reduced enamel epithelium;
B, Maturative/protective ameloblasts; C, Capillary
Chapter 1, Slide 9
Reduced enamel epithelium
Chapter 1, Slide 10
Immature enamel
Ameloblasts secrete
immature enamel which is
only partially mineralized
A, Ameloblasts;
B, Immature enamel
Chapter 1, Slide 15
Calcification
Enamel and dentin is fairly
evenly calcified in the erupted
deciduous tooth (1) but a
gradient of calcification can be
seen in the developing
permanent tooth (2) with the
more calcified areas located
in the incisal areas (arrow)
A, Enamel;
B, Dentin
Chapter 1, Slide 18
Root formation
After complete formation of the
crown of the tooth, the root is formed. An
extension of the enamel organ, called the
epithelial root sheath of
Hertwigs,continues to grow apically.The
epithelial root sheath induces the
differentiation of odontoblasts which form
root dentin. The apical most portion of the
root sheath turns inward toward the
radicular pulp Cavity (that portion of the
pulp cavity inside the root) and is called
The epithelial diaphragm.
A, Epithelial diaphragm;
B, Radicular pulp cavity;
C, Dentin; D, Enamel space;
E, Alveolar Bone; F, Root
Chapter 1, Slide 19
Epithelial root sheath
The epithelial root sheath is
made up of inner and outer
enamel epithelial layers without
the other two interposing layers.
Following the induction of
odontoblast and dentin
Formation,the epitheal root
Sheath disintegrates forming
epithelialrests, small groups
of epithelial cells that can
remain around the root.
A, Radicular pulp cavity;
B, Dentin; C, Dental sac;
D, Point at which
epithelial root sheath
begins to disintegrate;
E, Epithelial diaphragm
Chapter 1, Slide 20
Cementum formation
As the epithelial root sheath
breaks down, cells from the
dental sac migrate to the
surface of the root dentin and
differentiate into
cementoblasts. These
cells lay down
cementum on the
surface of the root.
A, Cementoblasts;
B, Odontoblasts;
C, Predentin
Chapter 1, Slide 21
Epithelial rests
Remnants of the disintegrated
root sheath called epithelial rests can
remain for long periods of time
following eruption of the tooth.
The first dentin that is formed
is called mantle dentin, while the
remaining dentin is called
circumpulpal dentin. There is
also a small layer interposed
between these two dentin
Layers of less mineralized
dentin called globular dentin.
A, Epithelial rests;
B, Mantle dentin;
C, Globular dentin;
D, Circumpulpal dentin
Chapter 1, Slide 22
First maxillary deciduous molar
This molar is from a 22-week fetus. The red coloration indicates
the formation of the hard tissues. Enamel and dentin are first formed at
the cuspal region and their formation proceeds toward the cervix of the
tooth
A, Cusp of molar
Chapter 1, Slide 23
Second maxillary deciduous molar
This molar is from a 19-week fetus. The first deposited
dentin on the mesiobuccal cusp is shown.
A, Dentin on the mesiobuccal cusp
Chapter 2
ENAMEL
Chapter 2, Slide 1
Stria of Retzius
During development of enamel,
variations in the metabolism of
the organism cause variations in the
amount of organic material deposited in
the enamel. This causes changes in the
coloration of the enamel that is layed
down at that time so that alternating
dark (higher organic material) and light
(less organic material) banding occurs.
These bands are called Striae of
Retzius. The striae of Retzius
usually intercept the
dentino-enamel junction.
A, Stria of Retzius ;
B, Dentino-enamel junction
Chapter 2, Slide 2
Enamel - transverse
ground section
In a transverse section of tooth,
the stria of Retzius appear as concentric
bands parallel to the dentino-enamel
junction (DEJ). In addition to the "hypo-
mineralized" dark stria of Retzius, there
also exist hypo-mineralized areas
perpendicular to the DEJ. These are
enamel lamellae (that traverse the entire
thickness of enamel) and enamel tufts
(that traverse the inner third of enamel
adjacent to the DEJ.
A, Stria of Retzius;
B, Enamel tuft;
C, Enamel lamella;
D, Dentino-enamel junction
Chapter 2, Slide 3
Neonatal line
The neonatal line is a dark stria of Retzius that occurs at the time of birth. It is
due to the stress of birth. The neonatal line is usually the darkest and thickest
stria of Retzius. The enamel at the cusp of the tooth generally exhibits a wavy
pattern. This enamel is called gnarled enamel. This is NOT hypo-mineralized.
The enamel rods are laid down in this pattern by
ameloblasts to make the enamel strong in this region.
A, Gnarled enamel; B, Neonatal line;
C, Dentin; D, Dentino-enamel junction
Chapter 2, Slide 4
Straight enamel rods - longitudinal
labiolingual section
The enamel rods project in the direction of the arrow.
Can you see the stria of Retzius?
Chapter 2, Slide 5
Gnarled enamel
Enamel rods are general not
straight throughout their length.
In the cuspal region, the rods are
very wavy. This is referred to as
gnarled enamel. In this section,
you can see the end of an
odontoblastic process
penetrating the enamel just past
the DEJ.
This structure is called an
enamel spindle.
A, Gnarled enamel;
B, Enamel spindle
Chapter 2, Slide 6
Cross-striations
Each enamel rod demonstates closely positioned striations along its
length known as cross-striations or incremental lines. These are thought to be
formed by the daily rhythm of the ameloblast laying down more and less
mineralized enamel. The striations are approximately 5 m apart. This distance
represents one day of enamel deposition. In this micrograph rods project in the
direction of the arrow. Can you see the striations on each rod? They are oriented
perpendicular to the length of the rod.
Note: Not the large dark bands projecting diagonally; these are
stria of Retzius.
Chapter 2, Slide 7
Enamel cut
In enamel cut in perfect cross-section the shape of the enamel
rod exhibits a "keyhole"-shaped pattern. However, in a normal
cross-section of enamel, as seen here, most rods are cut obliquely.
This is because they do not travel in a straight line.
The micrograph on the left is produced by differential interference
microscopy while the micrograph on the right is from transmitted light
microscopy.
Chapter 2, Slide 12
Hunter-Schreger bands
Hunter Schreger bands are
seen here with special
illumination in
longitudinal ground
sections of enamel as light
and dark bands.
The red arrows indicate
three light bands.
Chapter 2, Slide 13
Enamel tufts
Enamel tufts are less
mineralized areas of enamel
in the inner third of enamel
adjacent to the DEJ. They
resemble tufts of grass. They
are wavy due to the
waviness of the adjacent
rods. Structures rich in
organic matter
(i.e. less mineralized) that
project to the surface of the
enamel are
enamel lamellae.
A, Enamel tufts;
B, Enamel lamella
Chapter 2, Slide 14
Enamel tufts - two planes of focus
Enamel tufts consist of
several unconnected
"leaves" of hypo-
calcified enamel.
They display a wavy twisted
appearance. Enamel
spindles are the processes of
odontoblasts projecting into
the enamel.
A, Enamel spindle;
B, Enamel tuft
Chapter 2, Slide 15
Enamel tufts
aligned in rows
Enamel tufts are aligned in
rows. They may represent
planes
Of tension during
development
A, Enamel tufts;
B, DEJ;
C, Dentin
Chapter 2, Slide 16
Enamel lamellae
In this ground cross-section of
tooth,
you can see enamel lamellae
and enamel
tufts You can also see
the neonatal line.
What do all three of
these structures have
in common?
A, Enamel lamella;
B, Enamel tuft;
C, Neonatal line
Answer:
They are all hypocalcified.
Chapter 2, Slide 17
Decalcified tooth
In a decalcified section of
tooth, only the organic
material is left behind.
In this micrograph you can
see an enamel
lamella and enamel
tufts.
A, Enamel lamella;
B, Enamel tuft
Chapter 2, Slide 18
Odontoblast process
Odontoblast processes usually
end at the DEJ. However,
sometimes
the ends of the process
become embedded in the
enamel as it forms.
These very small, usually
straight structures that you can
see adjacent to
the DEJ are enamel
spindles. They are only about
one tenth the length
of an enamel tuft.
A, Enamel spindle;
B, Odontoblast
processes in dentin
Chapter 2, Slide 19
Enamel spindles
In this high magnification
of the DEJ you can clearly
see the bifurcation of the
ends of some of the
odontoblast processes as
well as enamel spindles.
A, Enamel spindle;
B, Odontoblast process;
C, Enamel rod
Chapter 3
DENTIN
Chapter 3, Slide 1
Contour lines of Owen
During development of dentin,
variations in the metabolism of
the organism cause variations in the
amount of organic material deposited
in the dentin, just as occurs in the
enamel. Changes in the coloration of
the dentin are called contour lines of
Owen. The first dentin that is laid
down (at the DEJ) forms the mantle
layer while subsequent dentin forms
the circumpulpal layer. In the crown of
tooth, dentinal tubules from
S-shaped primary curves.
A, Contour line of Owen;
B, Mantle layer of dentin;
C, Circumpulpal layer of
dentin;
D, DEJ
Chapter 3, Slide 2
Contour lines of Owen and Stria of
Retzius
The contour lines of Owen
intercept the dentino-enamel
junction and meet an
accompanying Stria
of Retzius that was formed at
the same time
A, Contour line of Owen;
B, Stria of Retzius
Chapter 3, Slide 3
Lines of vonEbner
Daily alterations in the
formation of dentin
produce imbrication lines
of von Ebnor that are
approximately 5 m in
length, are seen as
banding along the
dentinal tubules and are
comparable to the
cross-striations in
Enamel. Arrow indicates
the direction of the lines
of von Ebnor that are
perpendicular to the
dentinal tubules.
Chapter 3, Slide 4
Dentinal tubules
Each odontoblast has a long
process that projects through the
dentin to the DEJ. The hole or tube
in the dentin through which this
process projects is called the
dentinal tubule. The course of the
dentinal tubules in the crown of the
tooth is S-shaped due to the
crowding of the odontoblasts as
they get squeezed into a smaller
and smaller space within the pulp
cavity. This curve is called a
primary curve.
A, Primary curve
of dentinal tubule;
B, DEJ; C, Mantle dentin;
D, Circumpulpal dentin
Chapter 3, Slide 5
Odontoblasts
Odontoblasts in an erupted tooth
As the dentin layer forms, the
odontoblast become increasingly
crowded as they are squeezed
into a smaller area. The single
layer of odontoblasts (as occurs
in early development) has now
changed to stacks of
odontoblasts.
A, Odontoblasts;
B, Predentin;
C, Pulp cavity;
D, Dentinal tubules
Chapter 3, Slide 6
Secondary curves
During the deposition of
dentin, the odontoblast makes
slight undulations that creates
wavy dentinal tubules. This
waviness
of the dentinal tubules is
called secondary curves.
A, Secondary curve of
dentinal tubule
Chapter 3, Slide 7
Mantle dentin
When viewed in polarized
Light, mantle dentin (red
band), which is about
10 m wide, can be
differentiated from
circumpulpal dentin
(purple with black dentinal
tubules).This
is due to a difference
In the collagen fibers
in mantle dentin.
A, Enamel;
B, Circumpulpal dentin;
C, Mantle dentin
Chapter 3, Slide 8
Globular calcification
of dentin
Dentin is calcified after it
is formed. The calcification
begins in small spherical
areas. These become larger
and fuse with one another to
form a calcification front
(row of calcification sheres
along the
predentin edge).
A, Odontoblasts;
B, Predentin;
C, Calcification front;
D, Calcified dentin
Chapter 3, Slide 9
Calcification pattern of
dentin - decalcified
Section
In mature dentin, globules
of well-calcified dentin are
apparent (arrow) along
with Areas of less calcified
dentin
(white areas).
A, Globule of
well-calcified
dentin
Chapter 3, Slide 10
Interglobular dentin in
globular layer - ground section
Between the mantle and
circumpulpal layers is a layer of
dentin in which the calcified
globules do not fuse evenly.
This is called the globular layer.
In a ground section of dentin,
the less-calcified areas of dentin
appear as irregularly
shaped crescents called
interglobular dentin.
A, Interglobular dentin
Chapter 3, Slide 11
Globular layer and granular layer
In the root of the tooth,
the peripheral border of mantle
dentin adjacent to the cementum
has a granular appearance and is
called the granular layer of Tomes.
The granular layer is a less calcified
layer like that of the globular layer.
Generally, interglobular dentin is
seen only in the crown, but in this
specimen it extends into the root.
A, Circumpulpal layer;
B, Globular layer;
C, Mantle layer;
D, Granular layer;
E, Cemento-enamel junction;
F, Enamel;
G, Cementum
Chapter 3, Slide 12
Dentinal tubules
Dentinal tubules are the hollow
tubes that run through the dentin in
which are located the odontoblastic
processes. During formation of
dentin, intertubular dentin is laied
down between the odontoblastic
processes. Then a second layer of
more mineralized dentin is added to
"coat" the inside of the tubules. This
layer of dentin is called peritubular
dentin or intratubular dentin. In this
scanning electron micrograph, the
peritubular dentin
appears white.
A, Peritubular dentin;
B, Intertubular dentin;
C, Dentinal tubule
Chapter 3, Slide 13
Dentinal tubular branches in root -
transmitted and differential
interface contrast microscopy
Dentinal tubules generally
have lateral branches where
odontoblastic processes can
communicate with one
another. These branches, as
seen here, are most
numerous in the root of the
tooth.
A, Odontoblastic process;
B, Lateral branches of
dentinal tubules
Chapter 3, Slide 14
Terminal branching of dentinal
tubules
Dentinal tubules are closely
spaced but have a large diameter
close to the pulp cavity. Dentinal
tubules become more widely
spaced in the dentin but have a
narrower diameter as they
approach the DEJ. At the DEJ,
dentinal tubules branch. This
causes an increased dentity of
dentinal tubules in cross-sections
of dentin in this region. In this
micrograph, note the scalloped
appearance of the DEJ. The peaks
of the scallops point toward the
enamel.
A, Dentinal tubule;
B, DEJ; C, Enamel;
D, Enamel spindle
Chapter 3, Slide 16
Forms of dentin
Primary dentin, with straight tubules, is
laid down before completion of the
apical foramen. Regular secondary
dentin is characterized by a slower rate
of deposition and an abrupt change in
the direction of the dentinal tubules.
Tertiary or irregular secondary (also
called irritation, reparative or reactive)
dentin is laid down in response to an
irritation or damage to the overlying
dentin and/or enamel .This dentin has
irregularly arranged and few dentinal
tubules. With aging or severe damage,
tertiary dentin can totally obliterate the
pulp cavity.
A, Primary dentin;
B, Secondary (regular) dentin;
C, Reactive dentin
Chapter 3, Slide 17
Dead tracts and blind tracts
When dentin is damaged,
odontoblastic processes die or retract
leaving empty dentinal tubules. Areas with
empty dentinal tubules are called dead
tracts and appear as dark areas in ground
sections of tooth. With time, these dead
tracts can become completely filled in
mineral.
This region is called blind tracts and
appears white in sections of ground tooth
.The dentin in blind tracts is called sclerotic
dentin. The adaptive advantage of blind
tracts is the sealing off of the dentinal
tubules to prevent bacteria from entering
the pulp cavity.
A, Dead tract;
B, Blind tract
(containing sclerotic dentin)
Chapter 4
THE PULP
Chapter 4, Slide 1
Pulp
The pulp cavity occupies the
central area of the tooth
enclosed by dentin. The pulp
has the cellular, fibrous, neural
and vascular components of
typical loose connective tissue.
The main function of
the pulp is the production
and maintenance
of the dentin.
A, Pulp cavity;
B, Dentin;
C, Odontoblasts
Chapter 4, Slide 2
Nerve Plexus of Raschkow
Sensory nerve fibers that originate from inferior and superior alveolar nerves
innervate the odontoblastic layer of the pulp cavity. These nerves enter the tooth through the
apical foramen as myelinated nerve bundles. They branch to form the subodontoblastic nerve
plexus of Raschkow which is separated from the Odontoblasts by a cell-free zone of Weil. In
addition to the sensory nerves, sympathetic
nerve bundles also enter the tooth to innervate blood vessels.
A, Odontoblasts; B, Cell-free zone of Weil; C, Nerve plexus of Raschkow
Chapter 4, Slide 3
Vascular supply of pulp cavity
The pulp cavity receives
blood from one arterial that
enters the apical foramen and
courses directly to the coronal pulp.
Within the coronal pulp numerous
arterial branches form a interconnected
network of blood vessels as seen here
following
filling with ink. The smallest capillary
loops are in the subodontoblastic
zone (arrow).
Chapter 4, Slide 4
Structures within the pulp cavity
Arterioles, small nerve bundles and
fibroblasts are found in the pulp cavity.
A, Nerve bundle;
B, Arteriole; C, Fibroblasts
Chapter 4, Slide 5
Structures within the pulp cavity
Arterioles can be distinguished from
venules within the pulp cavity by the
thickness and contours of their vascular
walls.
A, Arteriole;
B, Venule;
C, Nerve bundle (cut in cross-section)
Chapter 4, Slide 6
Subodontoblastic region
Below the odontoblastic layer
is the cell-free zone of Weil
followed by a cell-rich zone which is
thought to provide replacement cells
for odontoblasts that die.
Within these zones are
the nerve plexus of Raschkow and
capillary network.
A, Cell-rich zone;
B, Cell-free zone;
C, Odontoblastic layer;
D, Dentin
Chapter 4, Slide 7
Denticle
The formation of a true pulp stone or
denticle is brought about by the
differentiation of pulp cells to
odontoblasts within the pulp cavity.
The resulting body has an
appearance characteristics of dentin
with tubules radiating out from the
center and predentin around
the periphery.
A, True pulp stone;
B, Pulp cavity;
C, Dentin
Chapter 4, Slide 8
False pulp stone
The formation of a false
pulp stone is caused by the
nonspecific calcification of tissue
around a central nucleus within
the pulp cavity. This pulp stone is
characterized by concentric
layers of mineralization rather
than radiating tubules as seen in
true pulp stones.
A, False pulp stone;
B, Pulp cavity
Chapter 4, Slide 9
Regions of the pulp cavity
The pulp cavity can be
divided into two main
regions: the coronal pulp is
located within the crown of
the tooth and the radicular
pulp is located within the
root.
A, Coronal pulp;
B, Radicular pulp
Chapter 5
cementum
Chapter 5, Slide 1
Acellular versus cellular cementum
During the formation of the root,
acellular cementum is layed
down mainly in the pericervical
(upper) region of the root.
Cellular cementum is laid down
after eruption and throughout
life, and is located in the
periapical (lower) and
interradicular regions
of the root.
A, Acellular cementum;
B, Cellular cementum
Chapter 5, Slide 2
Fused root tips
The continued deposition of
cementum is illustrated in this
cross-section of molar roots.
The interradicular cementum
of the roots is fused together
(arrow).
A, Cellular cementum;
B, Dentin;
C, Interradicular
cementum
Chapter 5, Slide 3
Cementocytes
Cementoblasts lay down cementum on the surface of root dentin.
Some cementoblasts become embedded in the cellular cementum.
These cells are called cementocytes. Cementocytes are housed in hollow
spaces in the cementum called lacunae. The processes of the cementocytes project
toward the periodontal ligament in small tubes in the cementum
called canaliculi
A, Cementocyte in lacuna; B, Process of cementocyte in canaliculi
Chapter 5, Slide 4
Sharpey's fibers in acellular cementum
The periodontal ligament is made of
large collagen fibers that course between the
cementum and the alveolar Bone. These fibers
are embedded in the outer layer of cementum
and are called Sharpey's fibers. They project into
the cementum between groups ofcementoblasts,
and lie perpendicular to the surface of the
cementum (direction indicated by the blue
arrow). The cementoblasts also lay down fine
collagen fibers in the cementum which lie parallel
to the surface of the cementum (direction
indicated by the green arrow).
In this micrograph of acelluar cementum
(bracket) the dentino-cementum junction
can be seen
A, Periodontal ligament fibers;
B, Sharpey's fibers;
C, Dentino-cementum junction;
D,Cementoblasts;
E, Acellular cementum
Chapter 5, Slide 5
Arrest or resting lines
Cementum is layed down at
intervals as evidenced by the
appearance of arrest lines
(light and dark banding
pattern) in the cementum.
These lines indicate
alternating periods of
deposition and lack of
deposition of cementum.
A, Arrest lines;
B, Dentin
Chapter 5, Slide 6
Cementum lamellae
In polarized light, a banding
pattern in cementum is seen
indicating alternating directionality
of collagen fibers in cementum
running parallel to the root surface.
Collagen fibers of the periodontal
ligament run perpendicular to the
root surface.
A, Cementum;
B, Granular layer of dentin;
C, Periodontal ligament
Chapter 5, Slide 7
Cementicles
Calcified bodies are
sometimes found in the
periodontal ligament. These
are called cementicles and
are formed in a number of
ways. Some are formed from
the calcification of epithelial
rests.
A, Periodontal ligament;
B, Cementicle
Chapter 5, Slide 8
Attached cementicle
Cementicles may be free in the
periodontal ligament, attached
to the surface of cementum or
embedded in the cementum. In
this micrograph a cementicle is
embedded in the cementum
layer.
A, Embedded cementicle;
B, Periodontal ligament;
C, Alveolar bone
Chapter 6
Periodontal
ligaments
Chapter 6, Slide 1
Alveolar bone
The tooth is anchored to the surrounding alveolar bone by the periodontal ligament. The
alveolar bone directly surrounding the tooth cavity is called cribriform plate. The layer of
cribriform plate into which the collagen fibers of the ligament are anchored is called bundle
bone. The bone underlying the gingiva is called cortical plate (not shown). Cribriform and
cortical plates are both compact bone, and are separated by spongy bone in the center of
alveolar bone. The bone inferior to alveolar bone (jaw bone) is called basal bone (not
shown) and is very thick.
A, Cem,entum; B, Periodontal ligament; C, Cribiform plate; D, Marrow
cavity of spongy bone; E, Bundle bone; F, spongy bone.
Chapter 6, Slide 2
Interdental septum
The bone between teeth is
called the interdental septum
and is composed entirely of
cribriform plate
A, Interdental septum;
B, Periodontal ligament
Chapter 6, Slide 3
Periodontal ligament
The periodontal ligament is anchored
in cementum of the tooth and the bundle
bone layer of the cribriform plate. Interstitial
spaces contain blood vessels and nerves
between collagen bundles of the
periodontal ligament. Both cementum and
cribriform plate can show arrest lines
indicating alterations in the deposition of
cementum and bone by cementoblasts and
osteoblasts, respectively.
Alveolar bone is compact
bone and shows osteons.
A, Dentin; B, Cementum;
C, Periodontal ligament; D, Osteon;
E, Interstitial space;
F, Arrest lines in cribiform plate;
G, Cribiform plate.
Chapter 6, Slide 4
Nonfunctional periodontium
In the absence of function of
the tooth, the periodontal
ligament becomes narrow
and looses the organization
of the fiber bundles.
A, Periodontal ligament;
B, Cementum;
C, Cribriform plate
Chapter 6, Slide 5
Gingival and alveolar crest fibers
The most cervical region of
alveolar bone is the alveolar
crest.
Alveolar crest fibers (the
cervical most fibers of the
periodontal ligament) attach to
the alveolar crest. Gingival
fibers extend from the cervical
cementum of the tooth into the
gingiva.
A, Gingival fibers;
B, Alveolar crest fibers;
C, Alveolar crest
Chapter 6, Slide 6
Horizontal fibers
Apical to the alveolar crest
fiber group is the horizontal
fiber group of the
periodontal ligament
A, Horizontal fiber group;
B, Alveolar crest fiber
group;
C, Gingival fibers;
D, Alveolar crest
Chapter 6, Slide 7
Oblique fiber group
Apical to the horizontal
fiber group is the oblique
fiber group of the
periodontal ligament.
A, Oblique fiber
group,,
Chapter 6, Slide 8
Periapical fiber group
In the region of the apex of
the root is the periapical fiber
group of the periodontal
ligament.
The neurovascular bundle
courses between these fibers
to enter the apical foramen.
A, Periapical fiber group;
B, Neurovascular bundle;
C, Apical foramen
Chapter 6, Slide 9
Interradicular fiber group
In multi-rooted teeth, the
interradicular fiber group of
the periodontal ligament is
located close to the crown
between the roots. These
attach to interradicular bone
(septum).
A, Interradicular fiber
group;
B, Interradicular bone
Chapter 6, Slide 10
Transseptal fibers
Transseptal fibers extend
from the cementum of one
tooth, over the interdental
bone (septum) to the
cementum of the adjacent
tooth.
These fibers keep
all the teeth aligned
A, Transseptal fibers;
B, Interdental bone
Chapter 6, Slide 11
Interstitial spaces
Interstitial spaces are regions
of loose connective tissue
located between periodontal
fiber bundles. These regions
contain fibroblasts, blood
vessels, and nerves and are
responsible for providing
nutrients to the periodontal
ligament and cells of the
cementum.
A, Interstitial fibers
Chapter 6, Slide 12
Cells of the periodontal
ligament
The main type of cell in the
periodontal ligament is the
fibroblasts. Adjacent to the
cementum are
cementoblasts, and
adjacent to the cribriform
bone are osteoblasts.
A, Fibroblasts;
B, Cementoblasts;
C, Osteoblasts
Chapter 6, Slide 13
Epithelial rests
(of Malassez)
Remnants of the epithelial
root sheath that remain
following its disintegration
during root formation are
called epithelial rests.
These are located in the
periodontal ligament.
A, Epithelial rests;
B, Cementum;
C, Periodontal ligament
Chapter 6, Slide 14
Intermediate zone in transmitted and polarized light
In the developing periodontal ligament during eruption of the tooth, three zones can be recognized:
zone adjacent to cementum, zone adjacent to bone and an intermediate zone. This zone
represents a transition zone between the original structure of the dental sac and the adult structure
of the periodontal ligament. In polarized light it is apparent that the collagen fibers run in a direction
opposite to those in the other two zones.
A, Predentin; B, Circumpulpal dentin; C, Mantle dentin;
D, Periodontial ligament; E, Intermediate zone
Chapter 6, Slide 15
Bone resorption
Tooth movement (by normal mesial drift or orthodontics) can cause cementum and
bone resorption. Tooth movement toward the cribriform plate stimulated
osteoclasts to resorb bone to make room for the new position of the tooth. The
scalloped-shaped resorbed are is
called a resorption lacuna.
A, Direction of tooth movement;
B, Resorption lacuna; C, Osteoclast
Chapter 6, Slide 16
Bone deposition
Tooth movement (by normal mesial drift or orthodontics) can cause bone deposition.
Tooth movement away from the cribriform plate stimulates osteoblasts to lay down
new bone, thus filling in the space left by the repositioning of the tooth. New bone is
woven bone and extends from an arrest line. Periodontal fibers are anchored in this
new bundle bone
A, Direction of tooth movement;
B, Woven bone (new bone deposition);
C, Arrest line
Chapter 6, Slide 17
Woven and lamellar bone
New woven bundle bone has a different appearance than the lamellar
bone which it has replaced in this ground section
of tooth and bone.
A, Osteon of lamellar bone;
B, Woven bundle bone; C, Periodontal ligament;
D, Cementum
Chapter 6, Slide 18
Gingival epithelium
The gingival epithelium facing
the tooth is divided into the
sulcular (unattached) and
junctional (attached) epithelia
and is nonkeratinized.
The gingival epithelium facing
the oral cavity is keratinized and
displays numerous rete pegs
(extensions of stratified
squamous epithelium into the
underlying lamina propria).
A, Sulcular epithelium;
B, Junctional epithelium;
C, Rete pegs
Chapter 7
TEETH
ERUPTION
Chapter 7, Slide 1
Pre-eruptive stage
The pre-eruptive stage of tooth development is that time before the initial
formation of the root. During root development the tooth begins to erupt. This
micrograph shows the beginning of the appositional stage when dentin and
enamel begin to be deposited.
A, Enamel organ; B, Dental lamina; C, Basal bone
Chapter 7, Slide 2
Pre-functional eruptive stage
During the pre-functional eruptive
stage the root forms and the tooth
erupts until it reaches functional
occlusion (it meets the opposing
tooth). In this micrograph a lateral
deciduous incisor is beginning to
form a root and erupt. The enamel
organ of the permanent incisor is
seen lingually to the erupting
tooth.
A, Erupting incisor during pre-
functional eruptive stage;
B, Permanent incisor;
C, Basal bone.
Chapter 7, Slide 3
Fusion of reduced enamel epithelium
and oral mucosa
Just prior to the tooth breaking
through the oral mucosa, the
reduced enamel epithelium fuses
with the oral mucosa. The
mucosa at the site of eruption will
form the gingival epithelium.
A, Erupting incisor;
B, Permanent incisor;
C, Reduced enamel
epithelium
Chapter 7, Slide 4
Clinical eruption
The penetration of the tooth
through the reduced enamel
epithelium and oral mucosa
represents clinical eruption.
During this time a bony partition
forms between the erupting
deciduous tooth and permanent
developing tooth.
A, Erupted deciduous tooth;
B, Permanent tooth;
C, Bony partition
Chapter 7, Slide 5
Functional eruptive stage
Following the complete
eruption of a tooth, the
tooth further erupts small
distances during its life
time due to the wearing
down of the incisal edge or
cusp.
A, Erupted deciduous
tooth;
B, Permanent tooth
Chapter 7, Slide 6
Root resorption
During the growth and
eruption of the permanent
tooth, the root of the
deciduous tooth is resorbed.
This resorption occurs due
to the pressure placed on
the root by the erupting
permanent tooth. A. Area of
root resorption
A, Area of root resorption
Chapter 7, Slide 7
Osteoclasts
Osteoclast-like cells are
stimulated by the pressure
from erupting permanent
teeth and resorb the root.
These cells line up along
the root and form
resorption lacuna
(scalloped shaped areas
of root resorption).
A, Osteoclast-like cells
Chapter 7, Slide 8
Intermittent resorption
During root resorption,
periods of resorption are
alternated by periods of
cementum repair.
Cementoblasts deposit
cementum in areas of
resorption forming a reversal
line. Some cementoblasts
become embedded in the
cementum and are then
called cementocytes.
A, Reversal line;
B, Cementoblasts;
C, Cementocyte
Chapter 7, Slide 9
Shed incisor (dentin)
Shedding of teeth usually entails
complete destruction of the root.
Resorption lacuna can be seen in
cervical region of the shed tooth.
In this micrograph note the
reparative dentin below the worn
incisal edge.
A, Resorption lacunae;
B, Incisal edge of shed tooth;
C, Reparative dentin
Chapter 7, Slide 10
Eruption of the permanent incisor
During eruption of the permanent
tooth its position may shift
buccally (especially after the
deciduous tooth has been shed).
The apical foramen does not
reach its final diameter until
functional occlusion
A, Erupting of the permanent
incisor;
B, Apical foramen
Chapter 7, Slide 11
Functional active eruption
After the permanent tooth
has reached its final occusal
position, it may further erupt
due to incisal wear. In
addition, passive eruption
can take place which involves
recession of the gingiva.
A, Mature tooth;
B, Gingiva
Chapter 7, Slide 12
Reduced enamel epithelium
At the conclusion of enamel formation the enamel organ is reduced to a few
layers of cuboidal cells called the reduced enamel epithelium. This layer forms
the junctional epithelium facing the tooth following eruption.
A, Reduced enamel epithelium
Chapter 7, Slide 13
Reduced enamel epithelium
During eruption much mitotic
activity occurs in the basal layers
of the reduced enamel epithelium
and oral mucosa. Upon tooth
penetration into the oral cavity
these two layers fuse and provide
cells for the epithelium facing the
tooth.
A, Reduced enamel
epithelium; B, Enamel space;
C, Dentin;
D, Oral mucosa
Chapter 7, Slide 14
Transformation of reduced
enamel epithelium
During eruption the reduced
enamel epithelium is
transformed into stratified
squamous epithelium.
A, Stratified squamous
epithelium adjacent to
cervix of tooth.
Chapter 8
THE ORAL
CAVITY
Chapter 8, Slide 1
Lip
The oral mucosa (lining of the oral
cavity) consists of stratified
squamous epithelium. Here on
the inside of the lip the epithelium
is nonkeratinized; it lacks a
keratin layer. Underlying the
epithelium is the lamina propria
which consists of
loose connective tissue.
Minor seromucous salivary
glands are also present.
A, Stratified squamous
epithelium, nonkeratinized;
B, Lamina propria;
C, Seromucous salivary gland
Chapter 8, Slide 2
Squamous epithelial cell (transmitted and phase contrast)
Nonkeratinized squamous epithelial cells of the inside of the cheek
demonstrate a flat appearance, a prominent nucleus, and ridges (dark lines,
arrow) caused by the close packing of neighboring cells.
Chapter 8, Slide 3
Transition between gingiva and alveolar mucosa
Generally the oral epithelium is keratinized where there is the most abrasion and where
the mucosa is directly connected to bone. In this micrograph, you can see the difference
in appearance of the nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium of the alveolar
mucosa and the keratinized stratified squamous epithelium of the gingiva.
The keratinized epithelium has long rete pegs and corresponding connective tissue
papilla. These two features help secure the epithelium to the underlying connective
tissue and maintain its integrity during the application of abrasive forces (chewing).
A, Keratinized stratified squamous epithelium (gingiva);
B, Nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium (alveolar mucosa);
C, Lamina propria; D, Rete peg; E. Connective tissue papilla
Chapter 8, Slide 4
Lip histology
The lip provides an example of thin
keratinized stratified squamous
epithelium of the outside skin, and thick
nonkeratinized stratified squamous
epithelium of the inside oral mucosa.
The transitional zone between these
two regions is the red margin which
consists of keratinized epithelium. Minor
mucoserous salivary glands are located
under the oral mucosa.
A, Keratinized stratified
squamous epithelium (skin);
B, Red margin;
C, Nonkeratinized stratified
squamous epithelium
(oral mucosa);
D, Minor mucoserous
salivary glands
Chapter 8, Slide 5
Skin of the lip
The skin of the lip consists of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium in
which hair follicles, sweat glands and sebaceous glands can be seen. Sweat
glands are tubular glands that empty onto the surface of the skin, while
sebaceous glands empty into hair follicles.
A, Sweat gland; B, Sebaceous gland; C, Hair follicle
Chapter 8, Slide 6
Red margin
The red margin is very thin keratinized epithelium with no hair follicles or sweat
glands. The orbicularis oris muscle fibers come close
to the red margin.
A, Red margin;
B, Nonkeratinized oral mucosa;
C, Orbicularis oris muscle
Chapter 8, Slide 7
Cheek epithelium
Nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium consists of layers of living cells. The
cells of the upper layers of epithelium appear clear due to fluid in the cells. The fluid
protects the underlying layers against machanical damage. The epithelium is divided
into layers: the deepest layer, stratum basale provides progenitor cells to renew the
epithelium, the stratum spinosum consists of variable-shaped cells connected
together by desmosomes. The cells in the upper most levels of
the spinosum layer are flat.
A, Stratum basale; B, Stratum spinosum; C, Oral cavity
Chapter 8, Slide 8
Submucosa of the lip
The submucosa of the oral cavity is composed of dense connective tissue
containing blood vessels, nerves and mixed
seromucous glands.
A, Mixed seromucous glands;
B, Dense connective tissue;
C, Blood vessels
Chapter 8, Slide 9
Gingival epithelium
Attached gingiva is located apical to the gingival sulcus. It is generally parakeratinized
stratified squamous epithelium which means that the upper layer of cells is dead but retain
their nuclei. Characteristics of keratinized epithelium is the presence of very long rete pegs
and connective tissue papillae. The attached
gingiva lacks a submucosa and is directly attached to bone.
A, Rete peg; B, Connective tissue papilla;
C, Oral cavity adjacent to attached gingiva;
D, Parakeratinized stratified squamous epithelium.
Chapter 8, Slide 10
Stippling of gingiva
In healthy gingival epithelium
"stippling" is often seen which
appear as small pits in the
epithelium. These are due to the
deep rete pegs. In this micrograph
of attached epithelium, you can see
a layer of keratin. The upper layer
of cells have lost their nuclei and
the epithelium is called
orthokeratinized.
A, Stippling of gingiva;
B, Keratin layer
Chapter 8, Slide 11
Adipose tissue of hard palate
The lamina propria of the mucosa of the hard palate in the midline region
(median raphe) serves at the periosteum of the bone and thus the mucosa is
called a mucoperi-osteum. A submucosa with adipose tissue exists in the
anterolateral region of the hard palate. The epithelium
of the hard palate is keratinized.
A, Adipose tissue; B, Oral cavity; C, Mucoperiosteum;
D, Dentin of tooth; E, Alveolar bone
Chapter 8, Slide 12
Glandular zone of the hard palate
In the posterolateral region of the hard palate the submucosa
contains seromucous glands.
A, Seromucous glands;
B, Mucoperiosteum
Chapter 8, Slide 13
Posterior hard palate
The seromucous glands extend into the midline of the posterior region of the
hard palate which is adjacent to the soft palate.
A, Seromucous glands
Chapter 8, Slide 14
Sagittal view of hard and soft palates
The epithelium of the soft palate is nonkeratinized. It overlies
a lamina propria, submucosa and muscle. Dorsal to the hard
andsoft palate is the nasal cavity.
A, Hard palate;
B, Soft palate;
C, Nasal cavity
Chapter 8, Slide 15
Incisive papilla
Just posterior to the central
incisors, there is an elevation of the
oral mucosa called the incisive
papilla. Sometimes, a nasopalatine
duct (lined with pseudo-stratified
ciliated epithelium) is present that
opens via the incisive foramen into
the incisive papilla.
A, Nasopalatine duct;
B, Keratinized stratified
squamous epithelium
Chapter 8, Slide 16
Filiform papilla
The surface of the tongue is
covered with epithelial protrusions
called papilla.
The most numerous of these
papillae is the keratinized filiform
papilla which is non-sensory and
gives the
tongue a rough
surface.
A, Filiform papilla
Chapter 8, Slide 17
Scanning electron micrograph of
filiform papilla
Filiform papillae resemble spiky
hairs or bristles and allow the
tongue to be used for lapping up
liquids and moving substances
around
in the mouth.
A, Filiform papilla
Chapter 8, Slide 18
Fungiform papilla
Mushroom-shaped papilla called fungiform papilla possess taste buds (onion-
shaped groupings of sensory cells) on their dorsal surface. The epithelium
overlying the sensory papillae is generally nonkeratinized or very lightly
keratinized. The fungiform papilla are dispersed over the anterior region of the
dorsal tongue; perceive sweet, salty and sour; and are innervated by the
seventh cranial nerve.
A, Fungiform papilla
Chapter 8, Slide 19
Circumvallate papilla
A V-shaped row of about eight very
large papilla called circumvallate
papilla exist on the posterior tongue.
These papilla are surrounded by a
deep trough (groove in the mucosa).
Taste buds are located down within the
groove, and detect bitter substances.
Special serous glands called von Ebner
glands secrete into the base of the
troughs to wash out the bitter
substances after taste bud stimulation.
A, Circumvallate papilla;
B, von Ebner gland;
C, Trough;
D, Taste bud
Chapter 8, Slide 20
Taste bud
Chemical substance in the oral cavity stimulate taste bud sensory cells through a
small opening in the epithelium called the taste pore. The taste bud contains
sensory cells (with apical microvilli), supporting cells and basal cells, the latter
providing new cells for the taste bud every 5 to 10 days. Upon stimulation,
sensory cells release chemicals from their basal membrane to stimulate sensory
nerve endings from taste ganglion
cells which relay the input to the brainstem.
A, Taste bud; B, Taste pore; C, Basal cell; D, Sensory cell
Chapter 8, Slide 21
Scanning electron micrograph
of taste pore
The taste pore is an opening in the
layer of epithelial cells covering the
surface of the taste bud. Taste
substances enter the taste pore and
stimulate the apical microvilli
of taste bud sensory cells.
A, Taste pore;
B, Taste bud
Chapter 8, Slide 22
Vascular supply of the tongue
he epithelium of the oral cavity is nourished by an extensive capillary plexus
which projects into the connective tissue papilla between the rete pegs. This
micrograph of tongue following a vascular dye injection illustrates the rich
vascular supply of the tongue especially within the connective tissue papillae
A, Capillary network within connective tissue papilla
Chapter 9
THE SALIVARY
GLANDS
Chapter 9, Slide 1
Fetal submandibular salivary gland
The organization of salivary glands is best understood by observing
a developing salivary gland. Salivary glands are divided into lobes and lobules containing
secretory acini and ducts. Lobes and lobules are separated by
connective tissue partitions. Acini are composed of either serous or mucous cells. They empty
into intercalated, striated and excretory ducts, respectively.
Intercalated and striated ducts are located within lobules and excretory
ducts are located within connective tissue septa.
A, Salivary gland lobule; B, Excretory duct; C, Striated duct;
D, Acinus; E, Connective tissue partition or septum
Chapter 9, Slide 2
Parotid gland
The parotid gland, located subdermally just in front of the ear,
is composed of serous acini only. The intercalated ducts are
smaller than the acini and the striated ducts are larger.
A, Serous acini;
B, Striated ducts;
C, Ecretory duct
Chapter 9, Slide 3
Parotid gland ducts
Intercalated ducts arise directly from the acini, consist of a simple cuboidal epithelium, and
are continuous with striated ducts. Intercalated ducts add bicarbonate to the saliva. Striated
ducts consist of a simple columnar epithelium. These ducts take sodium out of the saliva
making it more hypotonic. Striated ducts are named so because there basal membrane is
highly infolded giving the base of the cell a striated appearance. Striated ducts empty into
excretory ducts which do not modify the composition of the saliva. They consist of simple
columnar
to stratified cuboidal epithelium.
A, Intercalated duct; B, Striated duct; C, Excretory duct
Chapter 9, Slide 4
Acini and ducts
Duct cells generally stain more palely than serous acini. Serous acini are
composed of cells with a round basally located nucleus and basophilic
staining secretory granules containing zymogen
granules. Serous cells secrete a enzyme-rich watery fluid.
A, Serous acinus;
B, Striated duct
Chapter 9, Slide 5
Myoepithelial cells
Transmission electron micrograph of a
myoepithelial cell. Myoepithelial cells
are spider-shaped cells that are
located on the surface of acini
between the acinar cells and their
basement membrane. These cells
have contractile ability and are thought
to squeeze the saliva from the acini
and proximal ducts.
A, Myoepithelial cell
Chapter 9, Slide 6
Submandibular gland
The submandibular gland is a mixed, but mostly serous gland. Mucous
acini appear as very light due to the removal of
mucigen granules during tissue processing.
A, Mucous acini;
B, Serous acini
Chapter 9, Slide 7
Mucous and serous acini of submandibular gland
Mucous acini possess a larger lumen than serous acini. Mucous cells are
pyramidal in shape with a flattened nucleus pressed against the basal
membrane. The distal most portion of the mucous acinus is covered by a few
serous cells in the form of a half-moon
called a serous demilune.
A, Serous acinus; B, Mucous acinus;
C, Serous demilune
Chapter 9, Slide 8
Sublingual gland
The sublingual gland contains mostly mucous acini. Very few striated ducts are
present in this gland and intercalated ducts
are almost absent.
A, Mucous acini of sublingual gland
Chapter 9, Slide 9
Acini of sublingual gland
Each mucous acinus is capped with a serous demilune.
A, Mucous acinus;
B, Serous demilunes
Chapter 9, Slide 10
Fetal palatine tonsil
Tonsils are protective structures located between the oral cavity and pharynx.
Tonsils consist of lymphoid tissue usually located deep to epithelial crypts. The
epithelium is sometimes difficult to distinguish because of the infiltration of
lymphocytes. The tonsils are thought to be
a line of defense against infection. The palatine tonsil is located
on the posterolateral wall of the oral cavity.
A, Crypt;
B, Lymphatic tissue
Chapter 9, Slide 11
Palatine tonsil
The lymphatic tissue of tonsils consists of rows of
lymphatic nodules.
A, Crypt;
B, Lymphatic tissue
Chapter 9, Slide 12
Lymphatic nodules of tonsils
The lymphatic nodules display a lightly stained germinal center (where new
lymphocytes are generated) and a darker outer ring of densely packed
lymphocytes. These cellular components are supported
within a network of reticular fibers.
A, Germinal center of tonsilar lymph nodule
Chapter 10
temperomandibular joint
Chapter 10, Slide 1
Coronal view of fetal TMJ
The temperomandibular joint
consists of the head of the condyle,
articular disk and capsule, upper
and lower synovial cavities and
articular fossa. In this micrograph
the condylar head is still growing
by endochondral ossification.
A, Condylar head;
B, Articular disk
Chapter 10, Slide 2
Sagittal section of TMJ
The anterior end of the
articular disk and capsule
are attached to the lateral
pterygoid muscle.
A, Condylar head;
B, Articular disk;
C, Lateral pterygoid
muscle
Chapter 10, Slide 3
Endochondral growth of condylar
head
The condylar head grows by
endochondral ossification as
occurs at the epiphyseal plate of
long bones. The surface of the
condylar head consists of fibrous
layer, followed by a highly cellular
reserve zone, a proliferative zone,
hypertrophic zone, calcifying zone
and bone.
A, Fibrous layer;
B, Reserve zone;
C, Proliverative zone;
D, Hypertrophic zone;
E, Calcifying zone;
F, Bone
Chapter 10, Slide 4
Adult TMJ
The temporomandibular joint ginglymoarthrodial joint (meaning that it glides and rotates)
between the tubercles and fossa of the temporal bone and the head of the mandibular
condyle. An articular disk is separates an upper and lower synovial cavity and the entire
joint is surrounded by a articular capsule.
A, Condylar head; B, Tubercle of temporal bone;
C, Articular fossa;D, Articular disk; E, Upper synovial cavity;
F, Lower synovial cavity; G, Lateral pterygoid muscle;
H, Upper portion of posterior disk and capsule;
I, Lower portion of posterior disk and capsule
Chapter 10, Slide 5
Articular tubercle
The adult articular tubercle is covered with a layer of thick dense fibrous
connective tissue. Here you can see that the tubercle is
composed of lamellar bone.
A, Fibrous connective tissue layer;
B, Lamellar bone of tubercle
Chapter 10, Slide 6
Articular fossa
The morphology of the articular fossa (no thick fibrous tissue) indicates
that it does not play a role in the active function of the joint. In this
micrograph remodelling of the bone is apparent by
the presence of arrest lines in the bone.
A, Arrest lines;
B, Fossa
Chapter 10, Slide 7
Articular surface of condylar head
The condylar head is covered with thick fibrous connective tissue, which with
age may turn to fibrocartilage.
A, Fibrous connective tissue layer;
B, Lower synovial cavity
Chapter 10, Slide 8
Articular disk
The articular disk is composed
of thick fibrous connective tissue.
In the thin center the fibers run
parallel to the surface but around
the peripheral portions of the
diskthe deep fibers are woven. The
thin center receives the most
abrasive forces and is
avascular while the edges
of the disk receive a rich
capillary network.
A, Articular disk;
B, Upper synovial cavity