Odontogenic Lesions

Overview

Oral surgeons at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota are experienced in treating odontogenic lesions – rare lesions of the jaws and surrounding soft tissues of the mouth. The surgeons in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery work closely together and with other specialists at Mayo to provide comprehensive care to patients.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of odontogenic lesions starts with a careful history obtained from the patient, followed by a thorough examination of the lesion and the entire head and neck region. Tests frequently performed include X-rays, CT scans, MRI and PET (positron emission tomography) scans.

A small piece of the lesion is usually removed, often under local anesthesia, and evaluated under the microscope (biopsy) to provide a definitive diagnosis. This is critical to ensure appropriate treatment.

Treatment Options

Treatment options for people with odontogenic lesions vary depending on the specific disorder and its stage of growth. Treatment involves either medications or removal of the lesion using surgical or nonsurgical treatment, such as injection of steroids.

Any tissue removed during surgery is examined by a pathologist to ensure that cancer isn't present. Proper follow-up care and surveillance examinations are important, as some lesions can recur.

Learn more about odontogenic lesion treatment options.

About Odontogenic Lesions

Odontogenic lesions are caused by the malformation of tissues that are involved in forming teeth. Tooth formation is a complex process involving connective tissues and cells that line the mouth. The process of tooth formation may go awry when one or more of the main tissues that develop teeth — enamel, dentin, follicle, and dental papilla (special cells that create the tooth pulp) — do not develop normally. These conditions are benign (non-cancerous) and primarily affect the jawbone.