[Table/Fig-2]:

Tooth supporting structures and its features in childhood

Gingiva	The connective tissue has comparatively less well-developed net of collagen fibres than in adults. The surface of the col was said to be covered by an odontogenically-derived epithelium that is atrophic, (four cell-layers thick) and has a diminished proliferative activity. The replacement of the odontogenically-derived epithelium by ingrowing oral epithelium was considered essential for a healthy periodontium.
Periodontal Ligament	It is wider, has fewer and less dense fibres per unit area and has increased hydration with a greater blood and lymph supply than in adults. During eruption the principal fibres are parallel to the long axis of the teeth. The bundle arrangement occurs after the teeth encounter their functional antagonists.
Cementum	It is often thinner and less dense than of adults. It shows a tendency to hyperplasia of cementoid apical to the epithelial attachment. Before the tooth reaches the occlusal plane, a cellular cementum is formed.
Alveolar Bone	The lamina dura is thinner; there are fewer trabecular and larger marrow spaces. There is a smaller amount of calcification greater blood and lymph supply and the alveolar crest appears flatter.