Diagnosis and management of benign fibro-osseous lesions of the jaws: a current review for the dental clinician

Abstract

Benign fibro-osseous lesions of the maxillofacial skeleton constitute a heterogeneous group of disorders that includes developmental, reactive (dysplastic) and neoplastic lesions. Although their classification has been reviewed multiple times in the past, the most common benign fibro-osseous lesions are fibrous dysplasia, osseous dysplasia and ossifying fibroma. For the dental clinician, the challenges involve diagnosis and treatment (or lack thereof). A careful correlation of all clinical, radiologic and microscopic features is essential to establish a proper diagnosis and a clear treatment plan. This article aimed to review the clinical, radiologic and histopathologic characteristics of benign fibro-osseous lesions of the jaws, with emphasis on their differential diagnoses. With a deeper understanding of benign fibro-osseous lesions, clinicians will be better prepared to manage these lesions in their practice.

Keywords: benign fibro-osseous lesions; familial gigantiform cementoma; fibrous dysplasia; juvenile ossifying fibroma; osseous dysplasia; ossifying fibroma.