The periodontal ligament is composed of complex vascular and highly cellular connective tissue that surrounds the tooth root and connects it to the inner wall of alveolar bone. It develops from the dental follicle and is composed of fibroblasts, osteoblasts, cementoblasts and other cells embedded in collagen fibers and ground substance. The principal fiber groups help resist various forces on the tooth. The periodontal ligament plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis and provides shock absorption for teeth.