(TC77) Diagnosis and Management of Cemental Tears : A Case Series

A cemental tear refers to the partial or complete separation of cementum from the root surface, occurring either at the cemento-dentinal junction or within the substance of the cementum itself. Despite their potential role as a contributing factor to periodontal attachment loss, and mimicking radiographic lesions of endodontic origin, cemental tears are infrequently reported and discussed in periodontal and endodontic literature. This rare finding may lead to misdiagnosis with more commonly recognised conditions, such as vertical root fractures, resulting in inappropriate treatment decisions, including unnecessary extractions when the affected tooth may have been saved. Current evidence-base on this condition is limited and often contradictory regarding its etiologies. In this case series, we present 3 instances of diagnosed cemental tears, detailing the diagnostic procedures, suspected etiologies, clinical manifestations, and management strategies employed. We will utilize the classification system proposed by Lee et al. (2021) to frame our discussion. The primary objective of this presentation is to enhance awareness of cemental tears, empowering clinicians to diagnose and manage these conditions with greater confidence.