Cementum

Cementum is the thin layer of calcified tissue covering the dentine of the root, the term cementum is derived from Latin word ¿caementum¿. Dental cementum is unique in various aspects, it is an avascular, non-innervated mineralized tissue which does not undergo continuous remodelling like bone, but continues to grow in thickness throughout life. Due to its intermediate position forming the interface between root dentin and periodontal ligament, cementum is a component of the tooth itself, but belongs functionally to the dental attachment apparatus, that is, the periodontium. One of the main functions of cementum is to anchor the principal collagen fibers of the periodontal ligament to the root surface, but it also has important adaptive and reparative functions, playing a crucial role in maintaining occlusal relationships and to protect the integrity of the root surface.