Cementoblastoma is a rare condition that develops in the cementum of the tooth—the calcified substance that protects the root.
Approximately 50 percent of the patients experiencing symptoms of this condition are under 20 years of age; 75 percent are under 30 years of age.
The condition is defined by a calcified mass that develops on the root of the tooth, usually in the mandibular molars or premolars, eventually growing in size until it virtually overpowers the root. It usually only affects one tooth; in rare cases, lesions have developed on multiple teeth. The condition is almost always benign.
Cementoblastoma Signs & Symptoms
A patient may be asymptomatic initially. As the condition worsens, they may exhibit symptoms similar to the standard toothache, such as a dull ache at the site of the mass.
Others can include:
- Jaw pain or swelling
- Earache
- Minor dizziness
- Minor nausea
- Sensitivity
If the symptoms persist for more than a few days, visit your dental professional right away. The dentist is likely to refer a patient to an oral surgeon for a more in-depth consultation and follow-up care.
The condition demonstrates symptoms similar to osteoblastoma, another fibrous lesion. The difference in the two conditions is that cementoblastoma develops directly onto the tooth’s root; osteoblastoma does not.
Cementoblastoma Diagnosis & Treatment
The condition is usually diagnosed with a common x-ray, in which the mass is clearly visible at the root of the affected tooth. Further procedures, such as a CT scan, can confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, a biopsy (a small sample of tissue collected from the mass and examined under a microscope) is done.
The most effective method of treatment is extracting the affected tooth and mass. Surgical excision of the mass with root amputation and endodontic treatment of the involved tooth is another option.
The mass does grow slowly, but can cause discomfort for the patient as it gets larger. If left untreated, or if the mass is not removed completely, it will likely expand and affect other teeth and impact the healthy tissue.
Cementoblastoma Outlook
A patient can expect a full recovery from this condition. It is rare that the mass returns after it has been surgically removed.
