Multiple compond odontomas in the jaws: A rare case report

Abstract

Odontomas are tumours of odontogenic origin. In these tumours both the epithelial and mesenchymal cells undergo differentiation to form enamel and dentin with variable amounts of cementum and pulp tissue. The odontomas represent a hamartoma rather than a neoplasm. When the enamel and dentin are laid down in an organized manner it is termed as a compound odontoma wherein the tumour forms a collection of small structures resembling teeth. On the other hand, an irregular mass with no similarity to teeth is termed as a complex odontoma. There are cases of extensive and multiple compound odontomas which have been identified in either of the jaws. The present case is rare with multiple compound odontomas involving both the jaws of 45-year-old male patient. A review of seven such cases reported so far has been presented.