A PA radiograph shows radiopacity below the mandibular incisors. What is the likely condition?

• A. Odontoma
• B. Impacted incisor/canine
• C. Supernumerary tooth
• D. Osteoma

Answer: (A)

The presence of a radiopacity below the mandibular incisors on a PA radiograph suggests the presence of an odontoma. An odontoma is a type of benign tumor that is composed of dental tissue and can appear as a radiopaque area due to its calcified nature. These tumors often develop from tooth-forming cells and are typically located in the jaw, and they can present as an area of radiopacity on imaging studies.

Odontomas are commonly found in the anterior region of the jaws, especially in the area of the incisors, which aligns with the finding of radiopacity beneath the mandibular incisors. Their appearance can vary, often as either a compound odontoma, which consists of numerous small tooth-like structures, or a complex odontoma, which has a more amorphous structure but typically remains radiopaque.

The other conditions listed can lead to different radiographic appearances. For instance, impacted teeth usually present as a lack of eruption in a specific area rather than a distinct radiopacity. Supernumerary teeth may appear as additional tooth structures but would not consistently present as a solid radiopacity beneath the incisors without additional context. Osteomas are also benign bone growths that could be seen on radiographs, but they typically appear in