Cementum is the thin, bone-like layer that covers the root of each tooth. It is about 45-50 percent mineral and is made by cementoblasts. The fibres of the periodontal ligament are embedded in it on one side and in the alveolar bone on the other, anchoring the tooth in its socket.
| Location | Covers the outer surface of each tooth root from the cementoenamel junction to the apex |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
Anchors the periodontal ligament fibres to the root and allows small adaptive changes in tooth position over life.
Cementum is one of the four tissues of the periodontium, and it is exposed when gums recede, where it wears away easily and is vulnerable to root caries. It is laid down throughout life, especially near the root tip, which helps compensate for tooth wear. Excess cementum (hypercementosis) can make extraction difficult.
Excess deposition of cementum on the roots, seen with chronic inflammation, heavy loading or Paget disease of bone, causing bulbous roots.
Decay of exposed root surfaces after gum recession, common in older adults and people with dry mouth.
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