Anatomy and conditions
Cementum
A thin, bone-like layer that covers a tooth root and helps anchor it in the jaw.
Cementum is a hard tissue that covers the roots of teeth below the gum line. Fibers of the periodontal ligament attach to it, which holds the tooth in its socket. If gums recede, the root and cementum can be exposed, sometimes causing sensitivity. Front-desk staff seldom use the word with patients, but may see it in notes when a hygienist describes root surfaces.
Example at the front desk
The chart mentions exposed cementum, so I flagged her for a sensitivity discussion.