What is a significant difference between cementum and alveolar bone?

• A. Cementum contains blood vessels
• B. Cementum has nerves
• C. Cementum is avascular and aneural
• D. Cementum is more mineralized

Answer: (C)

Cementum and alveolar bone play crucial roles in the organization and stability of teeth within the dental arch, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. One of the most significant differences is that cementum is avascular and aneural, meaning it does not contain blood vessels or nerves. This lack of vascularization and innervation is important for its function, as cementum primarily serves to anchor the periodontal ligament fibers to the dentin of the root, providing stability without the need for blood supply or nerve endings.

In contrast, alveolar bone is a living tissue that contains both blood vessels and nerves, playing a more dynamic role in the oral environment, notably in its ability to remodel in response to mechanical forces and metabolic demands. The avascular and aneural nature of cementum allows it to maintain a relatively stable structure over time, while the presence of blood vessels and nerves in alveolar bone facilitates metabolic exchange and sensory function.

This characteristic of cementum being avascular and aneural is essential for understanding periodontal health and disease, as it can influence the healing processes and responses to treatments in periodontal therapy.