Cementum
Cementum
Cementum (pronounced: /sɪˈmɛntəm/) is a specialized calcified substance covering the root of a tooth. The cementum is the part of the periodontium that attaches the teeth to the alveolar bone by anchoring the periodontal ligament.
Etymology
The term "cementum" is derived from the Latin caementum, meaning "quarry stone", in reference to its hard, stone-like quality.
Function
Cementum primarily serves to anchor the tooth to the alveolar bone within the jaw, allowing for stable tooth function. It is also involved in tooth repair and regeneration, and provides a barrier for the underlying dentin.
Types
There are two types of cementum: acellular (primary) cementum, which is deposited before the tooth erupts, and cellular (secondary) cementum, which forms after eruption.
Acellular Cementum
Acellular cementum covers about 1/3 to 1/2 of the root and contains no cells. Its primary function is to anchor the tooth to the alveolar bone.
Cellular Cementum
Cellular cementum covers the apical 1/3 to 1/2 of the root and can contain cementocytes within lacunae. It is less calcified than acellular cementum and its primary function is adaptive, responding to stimuli such as tooth movement or trauma.
Related Terms
- Periodontium: The specialized tissues that both surround and support the teeth, maintaining them in the maxillary and mandibular bones.
- Alveolar bone: The thickened ridge of bone that contains the tooth sockets on bones that hold teeth.
- Dentin: The dental tissue underneath both the enamel and the cementum of the tooth.
- Periodontal ligament: The group of specialized connective tissue fibers that essentially attach a tooth to the alveolar bone within which it sits.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cementum
- Wikipedia's article - Cementum
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