Ameloblastoma relapse after 16 years of resection in symphysis of mandible sparing the bone graft.

Ameloblastoma is a tumor derived from epithelium involved in odontogenesis. Although it is considered a benign tumor, its clinical behavior may be regarded as lying between benign and malignant. It is characterized by slow but persistent growth, local infiltration into adjacent tissues and recurrences; however, metastases are rare. Diagnosis mainly from tissue biopsy and characteristic finding on plain X-rays does assist in differentiating between types of ameloblastoma. The challenges in the management of this tumor are to provide complete excision as recurrence may occur in incomplete removal and also to reconstruct the bony defect in order to give reasonable cosmetic and functional outcome to the patient.