The periodontal ligament is responsible for connecting teeth to what part of the mouth?

The periodontal ligament plays a crucial role in dental anatomy as it connects the teeth to the alveolus, which is the bony socket in the jawbone that houses the tooth roots. This fibrous connective tissue functions to anchor the tooth in place, allowing for some degree of movement during functions such as biting and chewing, while also providing cushioning and support to withstand the forces exerted on the teeth. The health of the periodontal ligament is vital for overall oral health, as it is involved in maintaining the integrity of the tooth's connection to the surrounding bone.

In contrast to the alveolus, the cementum is the protective layer that covers the tooth root itself; the maxilla and mandible are the upper and lower jawbones, respectively, that support the alveoli but are not directly connected by the periodontal ligament. Thus, the periodontal ligament's primary connection is to the alveolus, making this the correct answer to the question.