Alveolar Bone Proper
The thin layer of bone that lines the tooth socket and provides direct attachment for the periodontal ligament fibres.
Full Definition
Alveolar bone proper is the cortical bone lining the alveolar socket, also referred to as the cribriform plate or lamina dura on radiographic images. It is perforated by Volkmann's canals that allow passage of blood vessels and nerves from the supporting bone into the periodontal ligament. Radiographically it appears as a dense white line immediately adjacent to the root surface. In periodontal disease it is typically the first bony component to undergo resorption. Editors must distinguish it from the broader term 'alveolar process,' which includes both the alveolar bone proper and the supporting bone.
Usage
Usage note: Do not abbreviate or conflate with 'alveolar process.' When editing clinical narratives, ensure the radiographic term 'lamina dura' and the histological term 'cribriform plate' are used in their correct respective contexts.
In Context
- "Loss of the alveolar bone proper around the mandibular first molar was confirmed on the periapical radiograph." — Clinical case report
- "The histological section clearly delineated the alveolar bone proper from the adjacent cancellous trabeculae." — Research article