Dense connective tissues are a type of connective tissue. Unlike the similarly named loose connective tissues, dense connective tissues get their namesake from the lack of gelatinous ground substance present in the tissue. The matrix is made of proportionally more proteinaceous fibers, specifically collagenous fibers which are tightly packed in a parallel pattern. These make the tissue sturdier, but inelastic.
Dense connective tissues also have fibroblast cells, but they are pushed to the side between the collagenous fibers and compressed. Under a microscope, this may result in the fibroblasts appearing flat. This can distinguish them and their respective tissues from smooth muscle tissues.
Dense connective tissues are found in organs such as the tendon and the ligament keeping muscles and bones attached. Due to their density, while strong connectors, their inelasticity makes their organs easy to tear if pushed and twisted in a way they should not be.