Residual cementoblastoma: An unusual presentation of a rare odontogenic tumor

Cementoblastoma is a benign ectomesenchymal odontogenic tumor characterized by the formation of cementum mass continuous with the tooth root, preferentially a permanent mandibular first molar. Clinically, the tumor shows a tender, sometimes painful, cortical plate expansion, frequently in male patients under 30 years old. Radiographically, the lesion exhibits a radiopaque mass, surrounding by a thin radiolucent rim, and attached to the tooth root. Microscopically, it is visualized a calcified matrix lined by large hyperchromatic cementoblasts with radiating columns at the periphery. Treatment of choice is surgery. Interestingly, rare cases of residual (after tooth extraction only) and recurrent (after tumor removal plus tooth extraction) cementoblastomas have been reported, which can be misdiagnosed if an appropriate clinicopathological correlation is not considered. Here, we present a rare case of residual cementoblastoma affecting an 18-year-old male patient at level of permanent mandibular first molar. Thus, residual cementoblastoma is an unusual presentation which should be included in the differential diagnosis of cementum-forming and bone-forming tumors affecting the jaws.