Odontoma

An Odontoma' is a benign, odontogenic tumor with a fibrous capsule that contains all the components of a developing tooth, but is not physiologically organized. Ameloblasts and odontoblasts form an irregular mass.

Division

Odontomas are divided into complex and mixed type. There is a smooth transition between the two variants.

Complex odontoma

Irregular mass of hard and soft tissues (dentin, enamel, cementum, connective tissue).
Hard tissues are mature.
The spherical shape can cause swelling of the jaw.
There is a fiber sheath on the surface.
It occurs most often in the area of premolars and molars.
Active growth occurs during the period of development and maturation of teeth.
The diagnosis usually occurs in the 1st and 2nd decade.

Mixed odontoma

Contains a fibrous cover.
It is composed of a large number of small teeth in the connective tissue.
Sometimes bone is also present.
The teeth are deformed, but the enamel − dentin − pulp relationship is recognizable.

Occurrence

Odontoma occurs in children, young people, more often in women, rather in the mandible.
It often occurs in the place of a missing tooth, or also as a supernumerary tooth.

Properties

Limited ability to grow (self limiting).
Does not cause difficulties.

Treatment

Treatment is surgical, possibility of recurrence with incomplete removal.

Links

http://old.patologie.info/vip/preparat.php?detail=547