Ace the ADEX Dental Hygiene Exam 2025 – Sparkle Your Smile and Your Career!

The function of the proliferative cell layer in the junctional epithelium is primarily to support cell division. This layer comprises the basal and suprabasal cells, which are actively involved in the turnover of epithelial cells. In the context of the junctional epithelium, which lines the sulcus between the tooth and the surrounding gum tissue, the proliferative nature of this cell layer is crucial for maintaining the integrity and health of the periodontal attachment.

When cells from this layer divide and migrate upward, they help replace cells that are lost due to abrasion or inflammatory processes, ensuring the continuity and proper functioning of the junctional epithelium. This process is vital for the overall health of the periodontium because it aids in the healing of any potential lesions or disruptions in the epithelial barrier. Thus, the role of cell division is essential for both maintaining the structure and function of the junctional epithelium and for establishing a resilient interface between the tooth and the surrounding tissues.