Regional Odontodysplasia Affecting the Maxilla

Abstract

Regional odontodysplasia (RO) is a rare dental anomaly of unknown etiology that can affect both deciduous and permanent dentition. RO is characterized by severe hypoplasia of enamel and dentin, and teeth affected are friable and more susceptible to caries and fractures. Most of the lesions occur in the anterior maxilla and correlation with clinical and radiographic features is essential to provide a correct diagnosis. The major criteria for diagnosis are predominantly based on radiography, which shows presence of large pulp chambers and a marked reduction in the radiopacity of enamel and dentin, making the distinction between these mineralized structures difficult. Early diagnosis is important to minimize future sequels and allow preventive or conservative treatment. The therapeutic approach of the RO should be based on the degree of severity of the anomaly and in the individual functional and aesthetic needs of each case. A classic case of RO affecting the maxilla is exemplified in this Sine Qua Non Radiology-Pathology article.

Regional odontodysplasia on the left side of the mandible: report of an unusual case

“…Abnormal eruption of the affected teeth is the most typical clinical symptom of RO [3], similar to our presented case. The affected gingival tissue is often enlarged, fibrous or hyperemic and might contain a fistula [5,13,18]. However, the patient in our case had a normal gingiva texture and color.…”

“…However, the patient in our case had a normal gingiva texture and color. Additionally, although the maxilla is usually more affected than the mandible [3,13,19], the changes observed in this boy occurred only in the mandibular arch.…”

“…Since RO is a rare disease with limited reported literature, achieving evidence-based treatment is challenging, and its treatment remains controversial as to whether affected teeth should be kept or extracted. Many authors [11][12][13] have proposed early extraction of the impacted teeth, which could otherwise develop into more severe dental pathology. Poorly mineralized enamel and dentin or cleft could allow microorganisms to enter the dental pulp even in the absence of caries [14,15].…”

Impacted Inverted Supernumerary Tooth with Regional Odontodysplasia : A Rare Case Report

“…(5) In the present case odontodysplasia was noted in maxillary arch which is similar to the most of earlier reported cases. (1,3,6) The criteria of diagnosis of RO are mainly clinical and radiographic. Clinically affected teeth have an abnormal morphology and irregular surface contour with pitting and grooved surface.…”

Regional odontodysplasia diagnosed and treated via multidisciplinary approach: a case report

“…RO was first described by Hitchin in 1934, following which many researchers started to report its associated symptoms and radiographic features [6][7][8]. Although its etiology remains unclear [3,9], associations with local injury, infection, radiation, teratogenic drugs, high fever, malnutrition, local blood circulation disorders, genetic mutations and disturbances in neural crest cell migration have been proposed [10][11][12][13][14].…”