cement

Pronunciation: sē-ment′

Definition:

1. A layer of bonelike, mineralized tissue covering the dentin of the root and neck of a tooth that anchors the fibers of the periodontal ligament.
2. In dentistry, a nonmetallic material used for luting, filling, or permanent or temporary restorative purposes, made by mixing components into a plastic mass that sets, or as an adherent sealer in attaching various dental restorations in or on the tooth.

Synonym(s): cementumTA

[L. caementum, rough quarry stone, fr. caedo, to cut]

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