Cementum Thickness Distribution — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateAnatomy (Head & Neck)Cementum Thickness DistributionMFDS Part 1

In a normal mature permanent tooth, when cementum thickness is compared at standard levels along the root, at which level is it generally greatest?

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Correct answer: C — Apical third

The correct answer is **A, the apical third**. Cementum is deposited continuously and is generally thickest apically, where cellular cementum predominates. A human histometric study directly comparing root levels found median thicknesses of approximately 217 micrometres apically, 158 micrometres in the middle third and 97 micrometres cervically. The cervical third and cementoenamel junction therefore have relatively thin cementum, predominantly of the acellular type. The middle third is thicker than the cervical region but remains thinner than the apical third. Cementum thickness is not uniform and varies with age, tooth type and functional influences, but the normal overall apical-to-cervical gradient remains the relevant anatomical principle.

Reference: Birimiša MA et al. Forensic determination of dental age by cementum thickness of human teeth. Journal of Forensic Odonto-Stomatology. 2021;39(3):41-48. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34999579/