The periodontal ligament (PDL) plays a crucial role in dental anatomy by serving as the connective tissue that anchors the tooth to the surrounding alveolar bone.
- Its main functions include attaching the tooth root to the bone and absorbing the occlusal forces generated during chewing, which helps prevent damage to the tooth and bone.
- Additionally, the PDL contains sensory nerve fibers that provide feedback about pressure and pain, contributing to the protective reflexes of the oral cavity.

- While the PDL is involved in the maintenance and regeneration of periodontal tissues, it is not responsible for the formation of cementum, which is produced by cementoblasts.
- It also does not secrete saliva—this function is carried out by the salivary glands. The support for the eruption pathway is more related to dental follicle and bone remodeling rather than the PDL.

Key points:
- The PDL anchors the tooth root into the alveolar bone.
- It acts as a shock absorber for occlusal forces during mastication.
- Contains sensory nerve fibers for proprioception.
- Does not form cementum or secrete saliva.

Reference: Orban's Oral Histology, 14th Edition, Chapter 7 / Pages 150-155