What are cementicles primarily characterized as?

Cementicles are primarily characterized as round, radiopaque calcifications that can be found in the periodontium, particularly attached to the roots of teeth or within the periodontal ligament space. These mineralized structures can vary in size and are formed from the cementum, the calcified substance covering the roots of teeth. Their round shape allows them to appear as distinct, well-defined areas on radiographic images, where they exhibit increased radiopacity compared to surrounding tissues, making them identifiable during dental exams.

Understanding the nature of cementicles is important in dental hygiene and radiology, as it helps practitioners differentiate them from other structures or pathologies that can appear on dental radiographs. This identification is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.