Pediatric anterior mandible compound odontoma: review of the literature and illustrated clinical case

Abstract

Odontomas are benign odontogenic tumors resulting from developmental defects in dental tissues. They are categorized into two types: complex odontomas, composed of disorganized dental tissue masses, and compound odontomas, characterized by multiple, tooth-like structures. This case report describes an unusual instance of a compound odontoma in the anterior mandible of a 7-year-old male, detected incidentally during a routine dental check-up. Radiographic imaging, including panoramic X-ray and CBCT, revealed a hyperdense, tooth-like mass in the anterior left mandible. The lesion was surgically removed under general anesthesia, resulting in the extraction of 56 denticles. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, and no recurrence was observed. Although odontomas are generally asymptomatic, early detection and timely surgical intervention are crucial to prevent complications such as impacted teeth. The prognosis is typically favorable, with a low risk of recurrence.