Gum recession has left part of a patient's root exposed. Which tissue normally coats the root surface?

Question

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Cementum. Cementum is the calcified layer covering the root and provides attachment sites for the periodontal ligament.

Why the other options are incorrect:
• Enamel: Enamel is confined to the crown and does not extend onto the root.
• Dentine: Dentine underlies both enamel and cementum and is not a surface covering.
• Pulp: The pulp is enclosed within the tooth and does not cover the root.
• Alveolar bone: Alveolar bone surrounds the root within the socket but does not coat its surface.

Gum recession has left part of a patient's root exposed. Which tissue normally coats the root surface?

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