What is the meaning of Cementum?
Cementum is widely used term in Dental Anatomy.
Cementum in dental anatomy refers to the hard, mineralized tissue that covers the root surfaces of teeth. It is a vital component of the periodontium, which includes the tissues that surround and support the teeth. Cementum serves as a protective layer for the underlying dentin and helps to anchor the tooth to the surrounding alveolar bone through the periodontal ligament.
The composition of cementum is similar to that of bone, consisting mainly of mineralized collagen fibers. However, it is distinct from enamel and dentin, as it is not derived from the dental epithelium. Cementum is continuously formed throughout a person’s lifetime in a process known as cementogenesis. It can be classified into three types: acellular, cellular, and afibrillar cementum, each with different characteristics and functions.
Overall, cementum plays a crucial role in maintaining tooth stability and helping to support the tooth within the oral cavity. It also contributes to the repair and regeneration of periodontal tissues in response to various oral conditions and injuries.
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