What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• POF (Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma)

What is Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma? (Definition/Background Information)

• Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma (POF) is an uncommon benign tumor of the gums, commonly appearing on the lower jaw that is seen in a wide age range of individuals. The cause of formation of the fibroma is presently unknown
• Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma presents many overlapping features with the more common benign tumor, namely peripheral ossifying fibroma, and it is important to distinguish between the two
• Even though Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma is typically benign, large-sized tumors may present discomfort and loss of tooth/teeth. A simple surgical excision can be curative; however, the tumor is known to recur following treatment

Who gets Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma is observed in both children and adults
• A wide age category is noted (age range of 2 to 80 years), with a peak incidence occurring in the third decade (between 20 and 30 years)
• Both males and females are affected
• Worldwide, there is no racial or ethnic preference observed for this rare tumor form

What are the Risk Factors for Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, the risk factors for Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma are unidentified

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma? (Etiology)

Presently, the cause of formation of Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma is not well-understood.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma?

The signs and symptoms of Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma may include:

• Appearance of a solid and firm mass on the gums; the onset and growth rate of the mass is typically slow
• The tumor may form at the base of the teeth, or even between two teeth thereby displacing them
• More often the lower jaw (mandible) is involved than the upper jaw (maxilla)
• Ulceration of the mass is not usually noted
• Medium to large sized tumors may cause general discomfort and eating difficulties

How is Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma may involve the following exams and procedures:

• Physical examination of the individual and medical history evaluation
• Oral cavity examination
• Tissue biopsy: A tissue biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis. A biopsy is likely required to distinguish it from peripheral ossifying fibroma
• Radiographic studies might be considered

A differential diagnosis is important to exclude other conditions, such as peripheral ossifying fibroma, presenting similar signs and symptoms may be needed.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma?

The possible complications due to Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma include:

• Emotional stress
• Superimposed bacterial and fungal skin infections
• Eating difficulties from large-sized tumor
• Loss of teeth
• Recurrence of the condition

How is Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma Treated?

The healthcare provider may recommend the following treatment measures for Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma:

• Minor surgery to remove the tumor
• Tooth/teeth extraction, if necessary
• Antibiotic or antifungal therapy for secondary infections, if necessary

Regular follow up visits with the healthcare provider is important and recommended.

How can Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma be Prevented?

• Presently, there are no preventative guidelines available for Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma
• Undertaking periodic and regular visits to a dental professional is beneficial

What is the Prognosis of Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma is generally good with appropriate treatment (surgery) of the condition
• However, recurrences have been reported, usually within 4 years of first surgical removal of the tumor

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/dental-health/