The coronal portion of alveolar bone between teeth, known as the interdental septum, is a specialized part of your jawbone. It is located in the spaces separating adjacent teeth. This bone acts as a supportive structure, firmly anchoring each tooth within its socket. Its presence is important for maintaining the stability and proper alignment of your teeth in your mouth.
Understanding the Bone’s Structure
The interdental septum is part of the alveolar process, the thickened ridge of bone on your jaw that contains the tooth sockets. This bone is composed of both compact (cortical) and cancellous (trabecular) bone. The cortical bone forms the dense outer plates, typically 1.5 to 3 mm thick over posterior teeth.
Inside these cortical plates lies the trabecular bone, a more porous, spongy structure. It integrates with the tooth roots through the periodontal ligament, a network of fibers that connect the bone to the tooth’s cementum. This allows for slight movement and acts as a shock absorber during chewing.
Its Essential Functions
The interdental septum plays several roles in maintaining oral health. Its primary function is to provide structural support and anchorage for the teeth within their bony sockets. This allows teeth to withstand forces during biting and chewing, enabling effective mastication and clear speech.
The bone also helps maintain proper spacing between adjacent teeth, preventing them from shifting or drifting out of alignment. It protects the delicate tooth roots and the periodontal ligaments from external forces and infections. The alveolar bone also acts as a reservoir for ions, particularly calcium, and provides a framework for bone marrow.
Common Issues and Causes
The coronal portion of the alveolar bone is susceptible to bone loss, also known as resorption. One common cause is periodontal disease, a chronic inflammatory condition initiated by bacterial plaque accumulation at the gum line. If left untreated, this bacterial buildup leads to infection and inflammation of the gum tissues, forming pockets around the teeth.
As the infection progresses, bacteria and the body’s immune response can destroy the soft tissues and the underlying alveolar bone. This bone loss weakens tooth support, potentially leading to increased tooth mobility and, eventually, tooth loss. Trauma, such as injuries or excessive biting forces, can also contribute to bone loss. Systemic conditions like diabetes, osteoporosis, and hormonal changes can also contribute to bone resorption. Smoking can also lead to bone loss.
Maintaining Bone Health
Maintaining the health of your interdental alveolar bone involves consistent oral hygiene practices and regular professional dental care. Brushing your teeth and gums with a soft-bristle toothbrush at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque and prevent bacterial buildup. Daily flossing or using interdental cleaning devices helps clean the spaces between teeth where plaque can accumulate.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings allow dentists to monitor your oral health, identify early signs of gum disease, and remove hardened plaque (calculus) that cannot be removed by brushing alone. Lifestyle factors also contribute to bone health; a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D supports overall bone density. Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake can help preserve alveolar bone.