What is the outer layer of bone in the jaw known as?

The outer layer of bone in the jaw is known as the periosteum. This dense layer of connective tissue covers the outer surface of bones, serving both protective and supportive functions. The periosteum is vital as it contains blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic vessels that nourish the bone. It also plays a role in the attachment of muscles and tendons, helping to anchor them securely to the bone structure.

The cortex refers to the outer layer of the bone itself, specifically in the context of the compact bone, but it is not the connective tissue layer that the periosteum represents. The foramen is a small opening in the bone that allows nerves and blood vessels to pass through, but it is not a layer of bone. The medulla refers to the innermost region of bone, housing bone marrow, which is quite different from the periosteum in terms of structure and function.