Small Animal, Dentistry and Behaviour Conference 2019

Odontogenic tumours are unique to the jaws and originate from tissues associated with tooth development. Their incidence has been reported to be about 0.5-0.7% of all tumours in dogs and cats. An understanding of tooth development helps in a better appreciation of how these Odontogenic tumours are often classified according to their tissue of origin. Therefore, epithelial odontogenic tumours (e.g. ameloblastoma) arise from residual odontogenic epithelium. Connective tissue or mesodermal odontogenic tumours (e.g. peripheral odontogenic fibroma) arise from connective tissue elements and mixed odontogenic tumours contain both epithelium and connective tissue (ectomesoderm) from the stages of odontogenesis (e.g. odontoma).

Odontogenic tumours may also be classified as inductive (e.g. odontoma) with the interaction between epithelial and connective tissue elements to produce enamel, dentine and pulp or non-inductive (e.g. ameloblastoma) where there is no hard tissue formation.
It is important that a representative sample of the tumour be offered for histopathology. A deep incisional biopsy is important in differentiating odontogenic tumours from malignant masses. Plain radiography plus or minus CT scanning are important diagnostic tools to assist in determining tumour margins.

Surgery still offers the best chance for successful removal of the tumour. These surgeries can be cosmetically disfiguring or lead to functional issues for the animal. Clients must be made aware of such issues and other potential complications prior to surgery.

This lecture will discuss the types of odontogenic tumours seen in companion animals as well as their management.