Odontome Odyssey: A Case Series on the Surgical Removal of Complex and Compound Odontomes

Abstract

Background: Odontomes are the most common odontogenic tumors of developmental origin and are broadly classified into compound and complex types. While compound odontomes present as tooth-like structures, complex odontomes appear as irregular radiopaque masses. Although benign, they can interfere with tooth eruption, cause displacement, or present as incidental findings. Surgical removal remains the treatment of choice.

Case Presentation: This report presents two cases of odontomes managed surgically. The first case involved a complex odontome in the posterior mandible associated with delayed eruption and cortical expansion. The second case described a compound odontome in the anterior maxilla causing impaction of a permanent incisor. Both cases were diagnosed through clinical and radiographic examination and confirmed histopathologically.

Management and Outcome: Surgical enucleation was carried out under local anesthesia in both cases. Postoperative healing was uneventful, with preservation of adjacent teeth and satisfactory functional recovery. No recurrence was noted during follow-up.

Conclusion: These two cases highlight the varied clinical and radiographic presentations of compound and complex odontomes. Timely diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial to prevent eruption disturbances and achieve optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes.