Odontome, a term used in dentistry to describe a type of tumor, is pronounced as /ˈɒdəntəʊm/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "o" sound (/ɒ/) and the second syllable has a long "o" sound (/əʊ/). The stress falls on the first syllable, which is common in many English words. The ending "-ome" refers to a mass or growth, while "odonto-" is derived from the Latin word for teeth, hence the term odontome describes a tumor of dental origin.
An odontome refers to an abnormal and benign dental tumor or growth that develops within the jaw, usually near the gum line or inside the jawbone. It is considered a rare dental anomaly and can occasionally impede the normal growth and eruption of teeth. The term "odontome" is derived from the Greek words "odonto," meaning tooth, and "oma," meaning swelling or tumor.
Odontomes can take two distinct forms: compound and complex. A compound odontome manifests as multiple miniature tooth-like structures, resembling a cluster or a group of teeth. On the other hand, a complex odontome is characterized by a conglomeration of dental tissues without any specific tooth-like arrangement.
Typically, odontomes are identified during routine dental examinations or when they cause disturbances in tooth eruption or alignment. Some symptoms may include swelling, pain, or delayed eruption of permanent teeth. Odontomes are usually painless and slow-growing, with their potential to cause major dental problems being relatively low. They are most commonly diagnosed in individuals between the ages of 10 and 30.
Treatment of odontomes typically involves surgical removal. A dental professional, such as an oral surgeon or maxillofacial surgeon, will carefully remove the tumor, ensuring minimal damage to the surrounding structures. Following the successful extraction of the odontome, the dentist may recommend orthodontic intervention to correct any issues caused by the growth, such as tooth alignment problems.
Overall, odontomes are benign dental tumors that require prompt diagnosis and intervention to maintain oral health and prevent further complications.
Odontoma.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Odontome" derives from two Greek roots: "odonto" meaning "tooth" and "oma" meaning "tumor" or "mass". Therefore, "Odontome" essentially means "tooth tumor" or "tooth mass" in Greek.