Oral squamous cell carcinoma masquerading as gingival overgrowth

Gingival enlargements are frequently encountered in dental practice. There are different types of gingival enlargements and they vary according to the etiologic factors and pathologic processes that produce them. The exact diagnosis of the enlargement is important as some gingival enlargements can cause extensive morbidity or even mortality. Oral cancers especially squamous cell carcinomas present with variations in clinical presentation and the sites affected. A detailed medical history, clinical examination and radiographic evaluation will help identify the lesion. A biopsy will help provide a definitive diagnosis. An early diagnosis and treatment of squamous cell carcinomas is important as these tumours have a propensity for invasion of adjacent tissues and distant lymphatic metastasis which leads to a worsened prognosis. In this case report, the diagnosis and management of squamous cell carcinoma masquerading as a gingival overgrowth in the mandibular anterior region in a renal patient is reported. Dentists need to be aware and alert of the possibility of squamous cell carcinoma presenting on sites such as gingiva thereby preventing extensive morbidity and even mortality in these patients.