The alveolar ridge is the bony ridge in the upper and lower jaws that contains the sockets for the teeth. It plays a crucial role in dental health, as it supports the teeth and helps maintain their position. The ridge is covered by gum tissue, which protects the underlying bone and provides a surface for the attachment of teeth. In addition to its structural function, the alveolar ridge is important for speech and eating. It helps in the articulation of certain sounds and provides stability for the teeth during chewing. Loss of the alveolar ridge can occur due to tooth loss or gum disease, affecting overall oral function.