Paget's disease of bone with particular reference to dentistry

Paget's disease of bone (osteitis deformans) is a relatively common disorder of uncertain aetiology. It is characterised by abnormal resorption and apposition of osseous tissue in one or more bones of the skeleton. This is a review of Paget's disease with particular reference to dentistry. The prevalence, aetiology, clinical features, radiography, histopathology, biochemistry, oral and dental manifestations, complications and treatment are discussed. One hundred and fifty-two reported cases of Paget's disease of the jaws have been analysed. The upper jaw was more frequently involved than the lower jaw in the ratio of more than 2:1. This survey shows a higher prevalence of Paget's disease in the mandible than previously recorded.