Recurrent cementifying fibroma of the jaws

The cementifying fibroma is a benign fibro-osseous tumor of the jaws, and is generally believed to originate from the periodontal ligament. The tumor commonly presents as an asymptomatic mass lesion, and is usually well-circumscribed clinically so that conservative excisions have been the treatment of choice. From 1970-1980, 94 cases of cementifying fibromas involving either the maxilla or the mandible were accessioned by the Tumor Registry of the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology. Recurrences were found in 11 of these cases, of which 6 involved the mandible. Experiences with these cases are described, as well as experiences with two patients who were managed at the National Naval Medical Center and National Institutes of Health. Conclusions indicate that preferred management for most recurrent cementifying fibromas involves conservative removals which attempt to preserve form and function of the affected site. Residual disease when unavoidable often remains quiescent for extended periods of time without compromise to the patient involved.