What does cementum continue to do throughout a person's life?

Cementum is a specialized calcified tissue that covers the roots of teeth and plays a vital role in dental health. It continues to form new layers throughout a person's life, which helps in the attachment of teeth to the periodontal ligaments. This process is particularly important for adapting to wear and tear, as well as for dental health in response to various stresses and changes occurring in the mouth.

As we age, the body may go through changes that affect the overall structure of the teeth and supporting tissues, and the continuous formation of cementum contributes to maintaining tooth stability and supporting structures. This ability to lay down new layers of cementum helps in compensating for any loss of the tooth’s root structure or changes in the periodontal environment, ensuring that the teeth remain securely anchored.

Formation of new layers of cementum is essential for various physiological processes in the dental system, including reacting to tooth movement and trauma, thereby upholding the integrity of the tooth and providing a resilient foundation.