Hipercementosis Apicales y No Apicales en Raíces Dentarias Humanas

Abstract

Secondary cementum is deposited in a root apical third throughout the lifespan of a tooth to compensate occlusal erosion, keeping dental pieces in occlusion contact. Pearls are more difficult to spot, found by X-rays or after extraction. Their ovoid or spherical aspect is well outlined, hard to touch, and located in different thirds of the root. Our objective was to compare physical and radiological dental normal roots characteristics with those presenting this type of formations that alter radicular anatomy. We used 20 normal roots and 20 pearl shapes. Variables compared: age, sex, previous general pathologies and periodontals; extracted tooth type, dental arch location, extraction cause, consistency characteristics, color, aspect and texture of all roots and pearls. Radiological image was crucial for incorporation of teeth with cementum excess. Proportions between normal pieces and pearls were calculated with Fisher's Exact Test, with 5% significance level. Average age was 61years (16-79), and male proportion was 42.5% and 57.5% female. General pathology presented 37.5% and periodontal 55%, more extracted teeth were right side upper premolars 15%. Caries were extraction chief motive 72.5%. Roots were of hard consistency and smooth texture in both groups; nacreous aspect was 65%, clear colors 75%. Pearl consistency was hard in all of them; white color 60% and root similar color 40%; nacreous aspect 75% and smooth texture 90%. In radiographs was observed that cementum did not differ from dentine in 85% of pearls and in 60% of normal roots (p=0.004). Adults can develop cementum anomalies located in another apex sector although the root physical characteristics are considered inside normal parameters.