Description

The Ameloblastoma is a rare, non-cancerous (benign) tumor that develops most often in the mandible near the molars. The Ameloblastoma begins in the cells that form the protective coating of enamel on their teeth.

The most common type of ameloblastoma is an aggressive, forming a large tumor growing in the jaw. The treatment may include surgery and radiation. In some cases, reconstruction may be needed to restore your tooth, jawbone and facial appearance. Some types of ameloblastoma are less aggressive.

Despite the fact that the ameloblastoma is most often diagnosed in adults in their 30s through the 60s, ameloblastoma can occur in children and young adults.

Symptoms

The Ameloblastoma often does not cause symptoms, but signs and symptoms can include pain and a lump or swelling in the jaw.

If left untreated, the tumor can grow very large, distorting the shape of the lower part of the face and the jaw, and the change of the teeth out of position.

When to see a doctor

Talk with your dentist or health care professional if you have jaw swelling or pain, or any other concerns with your oral health.

Causes

The Ameloblastoma begins in the cells that form the protective coating of enamel on their teeth. On rare occasions, you can start in the tissue of the gums. The exact cause of this tumor is not clear, but several genetic changes (mutations) may be involved in the development of ameloblastoma. These changes can affect the location of the tumor, the type of cells involved, and how fast the tumor grows.

Ameloblastomas are usually classified by type, but also can be categorized by the type of cell. The four main types are:

  • Conventional ameloblastoma. This is the most common type, and grows aggressively, usually in the lower part of the jaw, and for approximately 10% recur after treatment.
  • Unicystic ameloblastoma. This type is less aggressive, but it usually occurs at a younger age. The tumor is often in the back of the lower jaw in the molars. You can come back after treatment.
  • Peripheral Ameloblastoma. This type is rare and affects the gums and oral tissues of the upper or lower jaw. The tumor has a low risk of recurrence after treatment.
  • Metastatic ameloblastoma. This type is very rare and is defined by tumor cells that occur away from the primary site in the jaw.

Complications

Rarely, the ameloblastoma may become cancerous (malignant). Very rarely, ameloblastoma cells can spread to other areas of the body (metastasis), such as the lymph nodes in the neck and lungs.

The Ameloblastoma may recur after treatment.

Diagnosis

The Ameloblastoma diagnosis can begin with the evidence, such as:

  • Imaging tests. X-ray, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging helps doctors to determine the extent of an ameloblastoma. The tumor can sometimes be found on routine x-rays at the dentist's office.
  • The tissue of the test. To confirm the diagnosis, doctors may remove a sample of tissue or a sample of cells and send it to a lab for analysis.

Treatment

The Ameloblastoma treatment may depend on your size of the tumor and the location, and the type and appearance of the cells involved. Treatment may include:

  • The surgery to remove the tumor. The Ameloblastoma treatment usually includes surgery to remove the tumor. The Ameloblastoma often grows in the vicinity of the jaw, so that surgeons may need to remove the affected part of the jaw. An aggressive approach to surgery reduces the risk that the ameloblastoma is going to come back.
  • The surgery to repair the jaw. If the surgery involves removing part of her skull, surgeons can repair and rebuild the jaw. This can help improve the shape of your jaw, looks and works after. The surgery may also help you to be able to eat and speak.
  • The radiation therapy. Radiation therapy using high-power beams of energy that might be needed after the surgery or if surgery is not an option.
  • Placement of the prosthesis. Specialists called prosthodontists can make artificial replacement of missing teeth or other damaged the natural structures in the mouth.
  • Supportive care. A variety of specialists who can help you work through the speech, swallowing and eating problems during and after treatment. These specialists may include dieticians, speech therapists and physical therapists.

Due to the risk of recurrence after the treatment, permanent, regular follow-up appointments are important.

Symptoms and treatment of Ameloblastoma