Which term describes the outer layer of compact bone around the tooth socket?

Which term describes the outer layer of compact bone around the tooth socket?

• A. Lamina dura
• B. Dentin
• C. Enamel
• D. Pulp

Answer: (A)

The outer layer of compact bone that lines the tooth socket is the lamina dura, also known as the alveolar bone proper. It forms the dense bony boundary surrounding the tooth root and defines the edge of the periodontal ligament space. On radiographs, it appears as a thin, continuous radiopaque line around the root. Dentin, enamel, and pulp are components of the tooth itself, not the bone that lines the socket, so they don’t describe this structure. The lamina dura’s appearance helps assess periodontal health, with thinning or disruption potentially signaling bone loss.

The outer layer of compact bone that lines the tooth socket is the lamina dura, also known as the alveolar bone proper. It forms the dense bony boundary surrounding the tooth root and defines the edge of the periodontal ligament space. On radiographs, it appears as a thin, continuous radiopaque line around the root. Dentin, enamel, and pulp are components of the tooth itself, not the bone that lines the socket, so they don’t describe this structure. The lamina dura’s appearance helps assess periodontal health, with thinning or disruption potentially signaling bone loss.