Odontoma in the subcondylar region

Complex composite odontoma with characteristic histology

Odontomas are the most commonly occurring odontogenic tumors, which are considered by many to be hamartomas rather than neoplasms. These clinically asymptomatic tumors are classified into complex and compound odontomas. They are usually discovered in radiographs and rarely cause bony expansion or infection. This paper discusses a case report of a complex odontoma exhibiting all the structural features and defects of enamel, dentine, and cementum in succession, with an overview on its etiology.

Odontome: A Brief Overview

Odontomas are the most common type of odontogenic tumors. They are included under the benign calcified odontogenic tumors. Odontomas are basically classified into two types, complex and compound odontomes. Various theories or etiological factors are been quoted for the occurrence of odontomes. Generally, they are asymptomatic. Occasionally, signs and symptoms relating to their presence do occur. The sole management depends upon the early diagnosis, histopathological examination and excision of these tissues. This article briefs regarding its classification, etiological factors, occurrence, differences between complex and compound odontomes, diagnosis and management.

Characterization of excess hard tissue occurring in the mesio-buccal surface of the mandibular first molar in microphthalmic mouse

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to characterize the excess hard tissue on the mandible of the microphthalmic mouse having a mutation at the mitf locus.

DESIGN

Homozygous mutant (mi/mi) and wild-type (+/+) mice were obtained by mating a breeding pair (strain name, B6C3Fe a/a-Mitf(mi)/J). We used mi/mi and +/+ mice at ages 6, 7, 8, 9, 28, and 49 days for micro-computed tomographic and histologic analyses.

RESULTS

Excess hard tissue was found on the mesio-buccal surface of the mandibular first molar in all 11mi/mi mice, but none was found in the 8mi/+ or 14 +/+ mice. The excess hard tissue was located in the mental foramen connected to the mandibular canal. The mandibular canal passed near the basal part of the incisor and the root of the mandibular first molar due to aberrant development of the teeth and mandible. The excess hard tissue contained predentine immunostained for dentine sialoprotein, a marker for early stages of dentinogenesis, which was first observed at about 7 days of age. Dentine, predentine, pulp, and root-like structures were observed in the excess hard tissue, but neither enamel nor enamel organ was observed.

CONCLUSION

Odontogenic cells in the basal part of the incisor and/or the mandibular first molar with the ability to develop into odontoblasts and pulp cells appeared to migrate through the mandibular canal to the mental foramen, where they developed into odontoblasts and pulp-like cells, and then formed dentine and predentine-like structures.

Surgical considerations in cases of large mandibular odontomas located in the mandibular angle

The surgical treatment of two large, complex odontomas of the angle of the mandible is described. It is recommended that the surgeon consider excision by an intraoral, lingual approach when indicated. The advantages, indications, and possible complications of this approach are discussed.

Compound composite odontome associated with impacted canine. Case report

A case of compound composite odontome is reported. The classification and aetiology of odontomes is briefly discussed.

Mental nerve neuropathy associated with compound odontoma

An instance of anesthesia of the lower lip caused by a compound odontoma in the mental foramen region is described. Removal of the odontoma was followed by a full recovery of the sensation.

Complex odontoma in the maxillary sinus. Report of 2 cases

2 cases of complex odontoma in the maxilla are presented with clinical, radiographic and histological findings. The tumors in both cases extended into the maxillary sinus and in addition, in both instances third molars were displaced by the tumor. One of the cases was associated with a dentigerous cyst.