Anatomy and conditions
Periodontal ligament
Also called PDL
The tiny fibers that connect a tooth root to the surrounding bone.
The periodontal ligament is a thin band of tissue between the tooth root and the socket in the jawbone. It acts like a cushion and holds the tooth in place while still allowing slight movement. It is also what lets braces move teeth. Gum disease can damage it. The term appears in clinical notes and is rarely needed at the front desk, but it helps in understanding why loose teeth are a concern.
Example at the front desk
The note says the periodontal ligament is damaged around that tooth, so the periodontist wants to see him.