Squamous cell carcinoma of the gingiva

The similarity of squamous cell carcinoma of the gingiva to periodontal or periapical disease poses problems in diagnosis and management. A case of squamous cell carcinoma of the gingiva is described. It was initially diagnosed as a periodontal lesion and then as a lesion of pulpal origin. This case demonstrates the importance of being highly suspicious of oral conditions, especially those that do not respond promptly to conventional therapy, and shows the value of microscopic examination of all tissues removed during any oral surgical procedure.