Calcifying odontogenic cyst of the gingiva: Diagnostic challenges in a central lesion presenting as a peripheral...

Odontogenic lesions are distinctive pathologies characterized by a wide age range of occurrence, notable radiographic features, and diverse histological patterns. Diagnostic complexity increases when central lesions appear at peripheral locations such as the gingiva. The calcifying odontogenic cyst (COC) is one such lesion, described under various terminologies depending on its histological and radiological features. This report describes a rare case of COC in an elderly female patient presenting with a swelling in the maxillary anterior region that was initially diagnosed as a peripheral ossifying fibroma. It underscores the clinical and histopathological findings and emphasizes the importance of recognizing the diverse gingival manifestations of odontogenic lesions to prevent diagnostic errors, recurrence, and inappropriate treatment outcomes.