What does “Cementum” mean?
Cementum is the hard tissue that covers the surface of the tooth root. It serves as the basis for attachment of the periodontal ligament and helps support the tooth within the jawbone.
How is it different from enamel?
While enamel covers the outside of the crown, cementum mainly covers the outside of the root. The two meet at the cementoenamel junction. Cementum is important when describing the relationship between the root and the surrounding supporting tissue, and is a different tissue from the dentin or pulp inside the tooth. Cementum is natural tooth tissue and is different from the dental cement that attaches restorations.
Why does care change when my gums recede?
When a root surface normally covered by gum becomes exposed, both plaque control and sensitivity need attention. Exposed roots can develop decay, and vigorous scrubbing habits should be reviewed. A dark color alone does not establish tartar or decay.
Relationship with periodontal treatment
In gum treatment, the root surface is checked for deposits and inflammation. It is helpful to be told how much supporting tissue is left and what tools you can use to clean your teeth at home. The goal of treatment is different than whitening the visible surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cementum the tissue that covers the roots of teeth?
Cementum is the tissue that covers the root surface and is involved in the attachment of periodontal ligament fibers. It is different in location and properties from the enamel that covers the crown of the tooth.
Can gum recession make the roots sensitive?
Sensitivity may occur as the root surface becomes exposed, but not all exposures produce the same symptoms. Other causes such as exposure range, cavities, and wear are also checked.
Should I scrub the area where the roots are exposed vigorously?
It is important to remove plaque appropriately rather than rubbing vigorously. You will be instructed on how to brush your teeth and use auxiliary tools appropriate for the exposed area and gum condition.
Cementum: 3 things to check during dental care
Please review the questions to ask before deciding on treatment and the treatment standards of TU Dental Clinic.
- A choice suited to your condition
Does the clinic check root exposure, sensitivity, and root cavity risk together?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic explains the treatment needed based on the current state of tooth decay and the gums. The treatment extent is determined from the diagnosis.
Integrated treatment that examines cavities and gums together - Preservation of natural teeth
Does the clinic explain how to care for it without unnecessarily damaging the surface?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic monitors the progress of tooth decay and determines the treatment range by considering the tooth tissue that can be preserved.
Integrated treatment that examines cavities and gums together - Care after treatment
Does the clinic check for changes in the condition of exposed tooth roots and gums?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic provides guidance on hygiene and regular check-ups after gum treatment. Ask about care suited to your teeth and gum condition.
Integrated treatment that examines cavities and gums together
Further reading and references
References
- Cleveland Clinic · Teeth anatomy, types and functionmy.clevelandclinic.org (opens in a new tab)
- Cleveland Clinic · Gum recessionmy.clevelandclinic.org (opens in a new tab)
- NIDCR · Periodontal gum diseasenidcr.nih.gov (opens in a new tab)
- ADA MouthHealthy · Cavitiesmouthhealthy.org (opens in a new tab)
- ADA MouthHealthy · Sensitive teethmouthhealthy.org (opens in a new tab)
