Cementum

Cementum is a thin, calcified tissue that covers the roots of teeth and provides the surface where periodontal ligament fibres attach to hold the tooth in its socket. It is softer than enamel and similar to bone, occurring in different forms (acellular near the cervical area and cellular toward the root tip) that help maintain attachment and permit limited repair.

Clinically, cementum is important because loss or exposure from gum recession can cause root sensitivity and increase the risk of root decay, and it is central to healing after procedures such as scaling and root planing. Because cementum has limited regenerative capacity, dental care emphasises prevention of root exposure and management of periodontal conditions to preserve tooth stability.