Hypercementosis is an overgrowth of cementum on teeth roots, which can cause pain and inflammation. Treatment depends on the cause and symptoms, with some patients requiring no treatment, while others may need anticancer treatment. Regular dental checkups are important to prevent complications.
Hypercementosis refers to a condition characterized by an overgrowth of cementum, the tissue that normally lines the roots of the teeth. Some patients may experience symptoms such as pain and inflammation around the roots of the involved teeth, while others are asymptomatic and the condition is only identified during routine dental screening. The most appropriate treatment may depend on the cause and symptoms; patients who have no other dental problems and no symptoms, for example, don’t need specific dental care beyond looking for complications.
Some reasons for developing hypercementosis may include Paget’s disease of the bone, gum disease, pituitary disorders, and aging. A dentist may order some additional tests to confirm that the patient has hypercementosis and not cementoblastoma, a cancer of the cementum. Both conditions are characterized by excessive tissue growth, but one is malignant and can cause complications as it spreads through the jaw. Cementoblastoma patients need anticancer treatment to arrest growth and prevent a recurrence in the interest of protecting the teeth and jaw.
In asymptomatic patients, hypercementosis may be seen on X-ray, where the cementum may appear enlarged. The dentist may conduct a physical exam to check for sensitivity and inflammation in the area, and if the patient appears healthy, the best treatment may be no treatment. Additional dental exams can check the patient’s progress, and patients can also report the onset of pain and tenderness if they arise. This approach minimizes the risk of complications from invasive procedures, such as infection or inflammation.
If the patient has symptoms or the hypercementosis is linked to another medical condition such as a glandular disorder, treatment may be required. The underlying problems may be treated by another specialist doctor, and a dentist may be able to perform procedures to address the excess cement and make the patient feel more comfortable. Pain and inflammation can also be treated with medications, while gum disease may require frequent cleanings and other steps to provide a measure of control.
Dental problems can cause larger systemic disorders, such as infections in the blood vessels of the heart, if left untreated. Patients who notice tenderness and irritation in their mouth should see a dentist to receive an evaluation, and it is advisable to see a dentist on a recommended schedule for checkups. These include the opportunity to have your teeth cleaned, take x-rays to check for problems, and perform a physical exam to assess the health of your teeth and gums.
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