National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Prepare for the National Dental Assisting Exam with comprehensive quiz questions, including multiple choice and detailed explanations. Equip yourself for success!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What is the primary purpose of interradicular fibers in the periodontal ligament?

  1. To provide sensory function

  2. To resist tipping and twisting of the tooth

  3. To assist in tooth eruption

  4. To support the gingival tissue

The correct answer is: To resist tipping and twisting of the tooth

The primary purpose of interradicular fibers in the periodontal ligament is to resist tipping and twisting of the tooth. These fibers are located in the areas between the roots of multi-rooted teeth and help to maintain the tooth's position within the socket. By providing resistance to various forces such as occlusal and lateral pressures, interradicular fibers play a crucial role in stabilizing the tooth and ensuring it remains properly aligned under functional strains. This stability is essential for maintaining overall dental occlusion and health, preventing potential malocclusion or tooth mobility. While other fibers in the periodontal ligament contribute to sensory function, assist in tooth eruption, and support the gingival tissue, interradicular fibers specifically focus on stabilizing the tooth against tipping and twisting forces, making them key players in maintaining the integrity of multi-rooted dental structures during normal oral function.