Supra-alveolar Fibers
Collagen fibre bundles within the gingival connective tissue that are positioned coronal to the alveolar crest and contribute to the gingival attachment apparatus distinct from the periodontal ligament.
Full Definition
Supra-alveolar fibres form part of the gingival connective tissue attachment and include groups such as the dentogingival, dentoperiosteal, transseptal, alveologingival, and circular fibres. These fibres are distinct from the principal fibres of the periodontal ligament, which occupy the space between the root cementum and the alveolar bone proper. Editors encountering anatomical descriptions in periodontal manuscripts should note that British English uses 'fibres' while American English uses 'fibers'; style must be consistent throughout a document. The transseptal fibre group, sometimes listed separately, is functionally considered part of the supra-alveolar complex and should not be confused with the periodontal ligament proper.
Usage
Usage note: Standardise spelling to 'fibers' (American) or 'fibres' (British) consistently throughout the document. Do not conflate with 'periodontal ligament fibers,' which are principal fibers occupying the ligament space apical to the alveolar crest.
In Context
- "Surgical fiberotomy severs the supra-alveolar fibers to reduce orthodontic relapse following rotational tooth movement." — Orthodontic-periodontic clinical report
- "The anatomy section must distinguish between supra-alveolar fibers and the principal fibers of the PDL." — Periodontal textbook editorial note