Odontoma
Pronunciation: oh-don-TOH-mah
A benign hamartomatous odontogenic lesion composed of enamel, dentine, cementum, and pulp tissue, classified as compound or complex type based on morphological organisation.
Full Definition
Odontoma is the most common odontogenic tumour and is considered a hamartoma rather than a true neoplasm. The compound type contains multiple small tooth-like structures (denticles) arranged in an orderly fashion, whereas the complex type presents as a disorganised mass of dental hard tissues. Odontomas are frequently encountered incidentally on radiographs and may be associated with tooth impaction. Editors must distinguish between 'compound odontoma' and 'complex odontoma' in pathology reports, as the two subtypes carry distinct radiographic and histological descriptors. The WHO Classification of Head and Neck Tumours provides the current authoritative taxonomy.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify subtype (compound or complex) on first mention in a pathology report. Do not abbreviate.
In Context
- "The synoptic report described a compound odontoma associated with an unerupted maxillary canine." — Pathology report
- "Editors should verify whether the author has specified compound or complex type when reviewing odontoma case descriptions." — Editorial guideline