American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) Dental Hygiene Licensing Examination 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The Pindborg tumor is a specific type of tumor known formally as the calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor (CEOT). This tumor is characterized by its unique histopathological features and tends to occur in the jaw, particularly in the area associated with the teeth. The name "Pindborg tumor" was derived from the researcher who initially described its characteristics, emphasizing the importance of the calcifying component within the tumor's structure.

The calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor is notable for its potential to cause bone expansion or resorption and is often asymptomatic, which can lead to its incidental discovery during dental radiographic evaluations. Understanding this tumor's characteristics is crucial for dental hygienists and other dental professionals, as early detection and intervention can significantly affect treatment outcomes.

In contrast, the other options represent different pathologies with distinct features. The dentigerous cyst is associated with the crown of an unerupted tooth, the adenomatoid odontogenic tumor is characterized by its epithelial origin and younger patient demographic, and the odontogenic keratocyst is known for its aggressive nature and high recurrence rate. Each of these conditions has its own clinical and radiographic presentation that differs significantly from that of the calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor.