Squamous cell carcinoma of the gingiva presenting as an endoperiodontic lesion

An unusual case of gingival carcinoma, initially presenting as an endoperiodontic lesion without clinical evidence of malignancy, is presented. It is important to consider carcinoma of the gingiva in cases of an endoperiodontic lesion unresponsive to therapy, and to investigate further when bone resorption occurs around one tooth. Submission of all dental tissue removed during oral surgical procedures for pathologic analysis may be beneficial.