Alveolar Crest
Pronunciation: al-VEE-oh-lar KREST
The most coronal portion of the alveolar bone that surrounds and supports the teeth, normally located approximately 1–2 mm apical to the cementoenamel junction.
Full Definition
The alveolar crest is the highest point of the alveolar process, the ridge of bone forming the socket that anchors each tooth. In a healthy periodontium, it is positioned 1–2 mm below the cementoenamel junction (CEJ). Radiographic assessment of the alveolar crest is critical for staging periodontal disease, as crestal bone loss is a hallmark finding. Editors must distinguish 'alveolar crest' from 'alveolar ridge,' the latter referring to the residual bony ridge after tooth loss. Accurate use of the term is essential in surgical and radiographic reports.
Usage
Usage note: Do not confuse with 'alveolar ridge,' which describes the edentulous bony arch after extraction. In radiographic reports, 'crestal bone level' is sometimes used interchangeably but is less precise.
In Context
- "The radiograph demonstrated alveolar crest resorption extending to the mid-root level on the mesial aspect of tooth 14." — Periodontal radiographic report
- "Surgical access was established to debride the alveolar crest of necrotic bone fragments." — Osseous surgery operative note