Selvig ,KA. The Fine Structure of Human Cementum. ACTA Odont. Scand., 23:423, 1965.

Aim

The purpose of the present investigation was to study whether acellular and cellular cementum is ultrastructurally similar to, or different from alveolar bone , to determine by electron microscopy if the Sharpey's fibers in the human periodontium are uncalcified, partly calcified, or completely calcified, and to compare the results with those derived from the observation of ground sections and microradiographics of the same specimens.

Methods

Freshly extracted teeth were obtained from individuals of different ages. After microscopic examination of the ground section and corresponding microradiographs, regions of acellular cementum, cellular cementum, and alveolar bone were dissected from the ground sections and prepared for electron microscopy.

Results

• That differences were found in orientation, width, and degree of calcification of the matrix fibers when comparing cellular and acellular cementum.
• The embedded Sharpey's fibers in accelular cementum were closely packed, and in general, completely calcified.
• In human cellular cementum and alveolar bone the Sharpey's fibers were separated by other fibers orientated parallel to the surface of the hard tissue or by randomly arranged fibers.
• The hydroxyapatite crystals at the calcification from of cementum and alveolar bone appeared as thin, plate-like structures.
• The presence of small, immature crystals on the surface of the cementum supports the concept that cementum is formed continuously.

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