Odontogenic lesions associated with impacted teeth: A 5-year retrospective institutional study

Abstract

Introduction: Odontogenic lesions related to impacted teeth are common findings in routine dental exams, with the potential to cause tooth pain, displacement, bone expansion, or even bone erosion. Thus, their early detection is important. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of such lesions based on patient age, gender, and location at the Tehran University of Medical Sciences, School of Dentistry, over five years. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study evaluated records from the Oral Pathology Department, covering a five-year period. The association of odontogenic lesions with impacted teeth was assessed. Data on lesion type, patient age and gender, involved jaw, lesion location, and affected teeth were extracted from patient records. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 24. Results: Out of 815 odontogenic lesions, 44.4% were associated with impacted teeth. The patient distribution was 52.48% male and 47.52% female. Lesions were most prevalent in the third decade of life (24.58%), and third molars (59.39%) were frequently involved. The posterior mandible (68.5%) and mandibular third molar (55%) were common sites. Dentigerous cysts had the highest frequency (35.4%), with odontogenic cysts (developmental) occurring more frequently (70.7%) than odontogenic tumors. Conclusion: The study underscores a significant association between odontogenic lesions and impacted or unerupted teeth. Periodic follow-ups are crucial for retaining impacted teeth based on these findings.