Alveolar bone science: Structural characteristics and pathological changes

Abstract The alveolar process is a major component of the tooth-supporting apparatus and is comprised of alveolar bone proper, cortical alveolar bone, alveolar crest, and trabecular bone. The alveolar process develops along with the dentition and undergoes resorption following extraction of teeth. With the advent of dental implant-supported rehabilitation, understanding and preserving the alveolar bone has become more imperative than ever before. In order to achieve the same, knowledge about applied biology, composition, microstructure, and anatomic, clinical, and radiographic features of alveolar bone is essential. The aim of this chapter is to help the reader gain a thorough knowledge of alveolar bone characteristics and its applied biology in relation to dental implants therapy.