An overview of molecular and genetic alterations in selected benign odontogenic disorders.

CONTEXT: Some dental abnormalities have environmental causes. Other odontogenic alterations are idiopathic and may have hereditary etiologies. Investigations of these conditions are ongoing. OBJECTIVE: To provide a discussion of developmental odontogenic abnormalities and benign odontogenic overgrowths and neoplasms for which genetic alterations have been well demonstrated and well documented. DATA SOURCES: Relevant peer-reviewed literature. CONCLUSIONS: The understanding of benign odontogenic lesions at a molecular level is rather well developed for some lesions and at the initial stages for many others. Further characterization of the molecular underpinnings of these and other odontogenic lesions would result in an enhanced comprehension of odontogenesis and the pathogenesis of a variety of odontogenic aberrations. These advancements may lead to better prevention and treatment paradigms and improved patient outcomes.