The specialized fibrous joint that connects a tooth to its socket in the jawbone, allowing slight movement but firm anchoring.
From Greek gomphosis, a term Galen used for this tooth attachment; from gomph- (bolt or nail, because teeth anchor like bolts) plus -osis (condition).
The gomphosis is one of nature's most ingenious shock-absorber systems—the tiny ligaments around your teeth aren't rigid, they flex slightly, distributing bite force and protecting your skull from damage!
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