Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

In hypercementosis, what condition is true regarding the periodontal ligament?

1. The PDL is absent

2. The PDL is swollen

3. The PDL is intact

4. The PDL is damaged

The correct answer is: The PDL is intact

In the context of hypercementosis, stating that the periodontal ligament (PDL) is intact highlights the fact that while the cementum of the tooth is abnormally thickened, the supporting structures around the tooth, including the PDL, remain unaffected. Hypercementosis is characterized by an excessive deposition of cementum on the roots of teeth, which may occur due to various factors such as systemic conditions or local irritations. An intact PDL indicates that the attachment of the tooth to the surrounding alveolar bone is preserved, allowing for normal tooth mobility and function despite the changes in the cementum. This is significant, as it differentiates hypercementosis from other conditions that may compromise the PDL, such as periodontal disease or trauma, where damage to the PDL often leads to mobility or other clinical signs. Understanding that the PDL remains intact in cases of hypercementosis is critical for clinical assessments and appropriate management, as it suggests that any discomfort or functional changes experienced by the patient may not stem from periodontal ligament involvement but rather from the altered cemental structure.