Which statement is true about the alveolar mucosa?

Which statement is true about the alveolar mucosa?

• A. It is keratinized and thick
• B. It covers the alveolar process of maxilla and mandible
• C. It is a firm attachment to the underlying bone
• D. It is located away from the teeth

Answer: (B)

The statement that the alveolar mucosa covers the alveolar process of the maxilla and mandible is true because the alveolar mucosa is the soft tissue that lines the alveolar processes, which are the parts of the jawbone that support the teeth. This mucosal tissue is important for protecting the underlying bone and providing a flexible yet functional surface for precise movements related to chewing and speaking. In contrast, other options do not accurately reflect the characteristics of alveolar mucosa. The mucosa is not keratinized and thick; it tends to be non-keratinized and thinner, allowing for the flexibility needed during movement. Additionally, while it does attach to the underlying bone, this attachment is not as firm as that of the gingiva, which is more strongly bound to the bone. Furthermore, the alveolar mucosa is located near the teeth, not away from them, as it directly borders the oral cavity adjacent to the dental arch.

The statement that the alveolar mucosa covers the alveolar process of the maxilla and mandible is true because the alveolar mucosa is the soft tissue that lines the alveolar processes, which are the parts of the jawbone that support the teeth. This mucosal tissue is important for protecting the underlying bone and providing a flexible yet functional surface for precise movements related to chewing and speaking.

In contrast, other options do not accurately reflect the characteristics of alveolar mucosa. The mucosa is not keratinized and thick; it tends to be non-keratinized and thinner, allowing for the flexibility needed during movement. Additionally, while it does attach to the underlying bone, this attachment is not as firm as that of the gingiva, which is more strongly bound to the bone. Furthermore, the alveolar mucosa is located near the teeth, not away from them, as it directly borders the oral cavity adjacent to the dental arch.