(si-ment'ŭm )

[L. caementum, cementum, rough-cut stone, rubble (for making concrete)]

The thin layer of calcified tissue formed by cementoblasts that covers the outer portion of the dental root. In it are embedded the collagenous fibers of the periodontal ligament, which are also attached to the surrounding alveolar bone proper and supporting the tooth. SYN: substantia ossea dentis.

SEE: cement.