Gingiva, Cementum, and Sulcus

The outermost layer of the tooth is the cementum, and is soft compared to enamel. The root of the tooth is protected and covered by soft tissue or gingiva, commonly called the gum. The gum is not attached to the tooth. Continuously, instead, between the tooth and the area around the tooth is a shallow v-shaped groove called the sulcus.