Cementoblast

Cementoblasts are specialized connective tissue cells that form the root cement ( cementogenesis ).

The cementoblasts adjoining the dentin root differentiate themselves from the mesenchymal cells of the tooth supporting apparatus during embryonic development .

Cementogenesis can last a lifetime, as long as there is no damage to the tooth support system. The cementoblasts initially form the precement, which consists of a (mucoprotein-containing) basic substance and collagen fibrils. Fibroblasts also participate in the formation of root cement; they produce the Sharpey fibers of the tooth support system. Mineralization turns the precement into root cement.

If the cementoblasts recede during the formation of the basic substance, acellular foreign fiber cement (AFZ) is formed. However, if the cementoblasts are enclosed by this during the formation of the basic substance, then the cementoblasts transform into cementocytes. Cementocytes form cellular mixed fiber cement (ZGZ).