cementum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cementum" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in a biological or dental context to refer to the hard tissue that covers the roots of teeth. Example: "The cementum plays a crucial role in anchoring the teeth to the jawbone."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

In humans, for example, as the tooth crown wears down, new cementum is deposited on the roots so that the tooth gradually rises higher in the socket and good occlusion (bite) is maintained.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The fibres of the periodontal membrane, which holds the tooth in its socket, are embedded in the cementum.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Deposition of cementum continues throughout the life of the animal, especially in response to stresses.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The dentin component is carved into the often-intricate ivory confections demanded by the Asian market; the cementum is usually discarded.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The valued part of the tusk comprises dentin covered by cementum.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It then secretes a compound called cementum, a kind of glue that helps the tick adhere to its prey.

The New Yorker

Cementum is yellowish and softer than either dentine or enamel.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Cementum, also called Cement, in anatomy, thin layer of bonelike material covering the roots and sometimes other parts of the teeth of mammals.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It is made by a layer of cementum-producing cells (cementoblasts) adjacent to the dentine.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing dental anatomy or procedures, use "cementum" to refer specifically to the bonelike tissue covering the tooth root. Ensure the context is clear to avoid confusion with other types of cement.

Common error

Avoid using "cementum" interchangeably with enamel or dentin. Each has distinct properties and locations within the tooth structure. Cementum primarily covers the root, while enamel covers the crown and dentin forms the bulk of the tooth.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "cementum" is as a noun, referring to a specific biological substance. As Ludwig AI explains, it is a bony substance that covers the root of a tooth.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

33%

News & Media

22%

Science

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cementum" is a noun denoting the bonelike tissue covering the roots of teeth. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct English, primarily used in formal scientific and dental contexts to describe tooth anatomy and function. Its infrequent usage outside specialized fields makes it an uncommon term in general conversation, but essential for accurate descriptions in relevant disciplines. Understanding the term and role of the "cementum" is vital in dentistry and related biological sciences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tooth cement

Direct synonym, emphasizing the function and location of the cementum.

dental cementum

Adds specificity by explicitly stating the cementum is related to teeth.

root cementum

Highlights the location of the cementum on the tooth root.

calcified tissue of tooth root

Describes the composition and location of cementum.

periodontal tissue

Broader term relating to structures surrounding and supporting the teeth, including cementum.

bonelike dental material

Emphasizes the composition and function of cementum.

tooth-anchoring substance

Highlights the function of cementum in securing the tooth.

acellular extrinsic fiber cementum

A specific type of cementum.

cellular intrinsic fiber cementum

Another specific type of cementum with cells inside.

intermediate cementum

The transitional layer during cementum development.

FAQs

What is the function of "cementum" in a tooth?

Cementum is a specialized bonelike substance covering the root of a tooth. It helps anchor the tooth to the jawbone by attaching to the periodontal ligament.

Where is "cementum" located on a tooth?

Cementum is located on the root surface of the tooth, covering the dentin. It extends from the cementoenamel junction to the apex of the root.

What is "cementum" made of?

Cementum is composed of approximately 45-50% inorganic material (primarily hydroxyapatite), 50-55% organic material (collagen), and a small amount of water.

What is the difference between "cementum" and enamel?

Cementum covers the root of the tooth and is softer than enamel. Enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of the tooth crown. They differ in composition, location, and function.