Gomphosis
Gomphosis
Gomphosis (pronounced: gom-foh-sis) is a type of fibrous joint that is found specifically in the oral cavity. This term is derived from the Greek word 'gomphos' which means 'bolt' or 'nail'.
Definition
A Gomphosis is a specialized, immovable fibrous joint. The primary function of a gomphosis is to securely connect the tooth to the alveolar bone of the jaw. This connection is made by a short fibrous tissue known as the periodontal ligament.
Etymology
The term 'gomphosis' is derived from the Greek word 'gomphos', which means 'bolt' or 'nail'. This is in reference to the way the teeth are 'bolted' into the jawbone, similar to how a nail is driven into a piece of wood.
Related Terms
- Fibrous joint: A type of joint in which the bones are connected by fibrous connective tissue.
- Periodontal ligament: A group of specialized connective tissue fibers that essentially attach a tooth to the alveolar bone within which it sits.
- Alveolar bone: The thickened ridge of bone that contains the tooth sockets on bones that hold teeth.
- Tooth: One of the hard, white structures located in the mouth, which are used for biting and chewing.
See Also
- Synarthrosis: A type of joint that allows for little or no movement under normal conditions.
- Suture (joint): A type of fibrous joint that only occurs in the skull.
- Syndesmosis: A slightly movable fibrous joint in which bones such as the tibia and fibula are joined together by connective tissue.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Gomphosis
- Wikipedia's article - Gomphosis
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