Definition: Excessive deposition of cementum on tooth roots.
Radiographic Features:
- Location: Apex of tooth root
- Edge: Well-defined
- Shape:
- Bulbous appearance at root apex
- Replaces normal tapered root end
- Outline may be smooth or irregular
- Internal:
- Radiopaque
- Less radiopaque than dentin
- Number: May be single or multiple
Key Diagnostic Signs:
- Bulbous root apex
- Continuous periodontal ligament space around the enlarged root
Clinical Significance:
- Usually asymptomatic and discovered incidentally
- Can complicate tooth extraction
- May interfere with orthodontic tooth movement
- Multiple teeth with irregular outlines may indicate underlying Paget’s disease of bone
Note: While generally benign, hypercementosis can impact dental procedures. Accurate diagnosis is important to distinguish it from other apical pathologies and to guide appropriate treatment planning.