Variable cementoenamel junction in one person

The cementoenamel junction of 18 teeth obtained from a young man with minimal periodontal involvement was examined in the scanning electron microscope to compare the relationships of the enamel, dentin, and cementum. The predominant arrangement of tissues proved to be that of cementum overlapping enamel, which took three distinct forms. Exposed surfaces of dentin were infrequent. Scalloping of the cementoenamel junction occurred in five teeth. In addition, the cementoenamel junction varied in a single tooth and between contralateral teeth. The conclusions indicate that the distribution of the three hard tissues found at the cervix are unpredictable and irregular. The findings of this study provide a baseline for future studies of the cementoenamel junction and restorative procedures in cervical regions of teeth.