Benign and malignant lesions of the mandible and maxilla: imaging findings and systematic approach

Although lesions of the mandible and maxilla are relatively common findings on imaging examinations, they still pose a diagnostic challenge for radiologists in clinical practice. Many of these lesions share similar radiographic characteristics, making it difficult to differentiate between benign, infectious, and malignant entities, which can delay appropriate management. This article aims to illustrate the main imaging findings and present a systematic approach based on radiological patterns, such as attenuation type, margins, relationship with dental structures, and anatomical distribution, in order to facilitate the differential diagnosis, as well as to guide clinical and therapeutic management.