Imaging characteristics of neoplasms and other lesions of the jawbones: part 1. Odontogenic tumors and tumorlike lesions.

Odontogenic tumors of the jawbones arise in the tissues of the odontogenic apparatus. Although many odontogenic tumors and tumorlike lesions may be asymptomatic, they can become severe enough to cause pain, swelling, paresthesias, facial disfigurement, and various dental problems. The evaluation of lesions involving the jawbones can be challenging due to lack of familiarity with the imaging and clinical features of the disease. Further confusing the diagnosis is the fact that some benign odontogenic tumors may exhibit an aggressive and destructive behavior that can fallaciously suggest a malignant lesion. Careful consideration of the patient's history and the location of the lesion within the affected jawbone, its borders, internal architecture, and its relationship to adjacent structures generally makes it possible to narrow the differential diagnosis.