Benign Intraoral Soft Tissue Lesions in Children

Area of Science:

• Oral pathology
• Pediatric dentistry
• Dermatology

Background:

• Benign intraoral soft tissue pathology is common in children.
• Lesions can be developmental, traumatic, inflammatory, or infectious.
• Common examples include gingival cysts, mucoceles, fibromas, and parulis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review common and less common benign intraoral soft tissue pathologies in pediatric patients.
• To highlight the clinical presentation and implications of these lesions.
• To emphasize the importance of evaluation and treatment for optimal child health.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of pediatric intraoral soft tissue lesions.
• Categorization of lesions by etiology (developmental, traumatic, inflammatory, infectious).
• Discussion of clinical features and management principles.

Main Results:

• Identified common pathologies: gingival cysts, mucoceles, fibromas, parulis.
• Noted less common lesions: peripheral ossifying fibromas, congenital epulis, congenital mandibular duct atresia.
• Observed that most lesions present as painless masses with potential impact on patients and caregivers.

Conclusions:

• Benign intraoral soft tissue lesions in children encompass a range of conditions.
• Despite being generally harmless, prompt evaluation and treatment are crucial.
• Appropriate management ensures the child's overall health and well-being.