Benign epithelial odontogenic tumors

Teeth are formed from a complex interaction of primitive ectoderm and ectomesenchymal tissues. Because humans develop 2 sets of teeth (deciduous and permanent), odontogenesis is a prolonged biologic process. Residues of odontogenic tissues are present in most humans- both during and after odontogenesis. These elements may be found in either bone or soft tissue of the jaws and may contribute to the formation of odontogenic tumors in these sites. Further, the mixture of epithelium and mesenchyme necessary for tooth formation allows for the development of tumors composed of either element or for mixed neoplasms. This article discusses 4 of the 5 benign odontogenic neoplasms that are of epithelial origin and offers an agreed on classification scheme, which includes important clinicopathological subtypes. Specifically discussed are ameloblastoma, calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor (Pindborg tumor), adenomatoid odontogenic tumor, and squamous odontogenic tumor. A brief history of each tumor is given along with a discussion of demographic data, clinical findings, radiographic features, and gross features where useful. A thorough discussion is presented of diagnostic histopathology including histologic variants. Generally accepted modes of therapy and follow-up recommendations are discussed.