What is the cervical line in dental anatomy?

The cervical line, also known as the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ), is specifically the area where the anatomical crown of a tooth meets the root. This region marks the transition between the enamel—which is the hard, outer layer of the tooth covering the crown—and the cementum, which covers the root. It is significant in dental anatomy as it can be an important landmark for various dental procedures, as well as for understanding tooth decay progression, periodontal health, and the overall structure of the tooth.

The choice referring to the boundary between enamel and dentin identifies a different anatomical feature, which is the dentino-enamel junction. The option describing the gum line refers to the relationship of the gums to the teeth and is not an anatomical division of the tooth itself. The surface texture of the enamel pertains to the characteristics of the enamel surface rather than its anatomical location. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the localized anatomical significance of the cervical line in relation to the tooth's structure.