A Radiographic technique for differentiating enamel and dentin in odontogenic tumors

Abstract

Tumors derived from odontogenic tissues constitute an unusually diverse group of lesions. This multiformity reflects the complex nature of development of dental structures. There occurs a wide range of radiographic manifestations which may result from the fact that the jaw bones contain dental components of ectodermal and mesodermal origin enamel, dentin, cementum, and pulp tissues(1).Radiographs are foremost and the most important diagnostic techniques. In histopathologic techniques like decalcified sections, calcified structures such as enamel which are highly mineralized may be lost and thus only their empty spaces may remain. Computed Tomography (CT) provides very good spatial resolution i.e. the ability to distinguish between two separate structures that are very close together. Through this case report we highlight the use of CT technique along with a colour contrast software which uses in its principle, methods to quantify & qualitate the density to distinguish between enamel and dentin to provide an accurate diagnosis.