Cementum

Question 1

What is it?

Answer 1

the calcified protective outer covering of the root + is similar in structure to bone. cementum meets enamel at the neck of the tooth + normally lies beneath the gingivae.
its properties + microscopic structures:

Question 2

1.

Answer 2

Around 65% mineralised, with calcium hydroxyapatite
crystals
the crystals lie within a matrix of fibrous tissue, with the ends of collagen fibres from the periodontal ligament inserted into the outer layer of cementum

Question 3

2.

Answer 3

This allows the attachment of the root to the periodontal ligament, + therefore to the walls of the tooth socket

Question 4

3.

Answer 4

formed by cells called cementoblasts + they can continue laying down more tissue layers when required

Question 5

4.

Answer 5

the thickness of cementum may vary at different parts of the root, + changed throughout life depending on the forces exerted on individual teeth

Question 6

5.

Answer 6

the cementum contains no nerves nor blood vessels itself, so receives its nutrients from the periodontal ligament