A method of schematic three-dimensional reconstruction for studying the gross morphology of epithelial residues in periodontal ligament.
A series of standardized black and white composite photomicrographs of serial sections at X 160 magnification were placed side by side to a straight reference line through the cementum margins. The distances of various parts of the epithelial rest system from the reference line were measured and from the measurements a bar graph was constructed which provided a 3-dimensional representation of the overall configuration of the marginally-sited rests and their relationship to the junctional epithelium. The epithelial residues formed a continuous network the coronal border of which was in intermittent direct continuity with the junctional epithelium. However, to what extent this was affected by the mild chronic inflammation present could not be assessed.
D000818:Animals; D004848:Epithelium / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D010513:Periodontal Ligament / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D010784:Photomicrography; D013552:Swine