Editing Tooth decay (section)

===Cementum===
The incidence of cemental caries increases in older adults as gingival recession occurs from either trauma or periodontal disease. It is a chronic condition that forms a large, shallow lesion and slowly invades first the root's cementum and then dentin to cause a chronic infection of the pulp (see further discussion under classification by affected hard tissue). Because dental pain is a late finding, many lesions are not detected early, resulting in restorative challenges and increased tooth loss.<ref>Fehrenbach, MJ and Popowics, T (2026). ''Illustrated Dental Embryology, Histology, and Anatomy'', 6th edition. Elsevier, p. 194.</ref>