Which structure attaches the teeth to the surrounding alveolar bone?

The structure that attaches the teeth to the surrounding alveolar bone is the periodontal ligament. This specialized connective tissue surrounds the roots of the teeth and connects them to the alveolar bone, providing support and stability. The periodontal ligament plays a critical role in both anchoring the teeth in place and allowing for slight movement during activities such as chewing. Additionally, it contains nerve fibers and blood vessels, which contribute to the overall health and vitality of the tooth root and surrounding structures.

Other structures mentioned, such as enamel, cementum, and dentin, play distinct roles in tooth anatomy and function but do not serve as the primary attachment mechanism between teeth and bone. Enamel is the hard outer layer that protects the tooth, dentin is the inner supportive tissue beneath enamel, and cementum covers the root surface to help anchor the periodontal ligament, but it is the ligament itself that directly connects teeth to the bone structure.