Gomphosis

Definition

A gomphosis is a type of fibrous joint where a conical process fits into a socket and is held in place by a ligament. It's most commonly seen where the roots of teeth fit into the sockets of the jawbone.

Related terms

Fibrous joints: Joints connected by dense connective tissue, allowing for little to no movement.

Periodontal ligament: The fibrous connective tissue that holds the teeth in the alveolar sockets, playing a critical role in the structure of a gomphosis.

Synarthrosis: A general category of immovable joints, which includes gomphoses among other types