Giant complex odontomas erupting in the Oral Cavity

Odontomas are the most common odontogenic tumors. Complex odontomas are less frequently found as compared to the compound odontomas and they are considered to be hamartomatous malformations rather than true neoplasms. Usually they have an asymptomatic `evolutionary course. The structural composition of an odontoma consists of mature dental tissues. Based on the degree of morpho-differentiation or on the basis of their resemblance to normal teeth, they are divided into compound and complex odontomas. The compound odontoma is composed of multiple, small tooth-like structures. The complex odontoma consists of a conglomerate mass of enamel and dentin, which bears no anatomic resemblance to a tooth. They are usually diagnosed on routine radiological examinations and are often slow growing and non-aggressive in nature. Occasionally, they become infected and cause pain and swelling, facial asymmetry, allows adoption of a less complex and less expensive treatment and ensures better prognosis. The use of CT, in addition to OPG, is valuable in the visualization of the relationship of the unerupted second and third molar and a complex odontoma, thus aiding in the surgical management. Here, we report case of complex odontoma and the importance of CT in terms of its diagnosis and treatment planning. This case is significant as there are few reports of complex odontoma erupting in the oral cavity. Eruption of an odontoma into the oral cavity is rare. Most odontomas (70%) are associated with abnormalities such as impaction, malpositioning, aplasia, malformation, devitalization of adjacent teeth. Therefore should be removed as early as possible.