316 - An Illustrative Case of Pediatric Peripheral Ossifying Fibroma

Peripheral Ossifying Fibroma (POF) is a benign, fibro-osseous, tumor-like growth of the soft tissue that primarily arises from the interdental papilla. POFs typically occur in adolescents and young adults, resulting from irritants such as trauma, microorganisms, or dental appliances. We report a 10-year-old male in active orthodontic treatment who exhibited a painless, abnormally large gingival growth behind his maxillary incisors. A 1.25 cm circular, fibrous, ulcerated, pedunculated lesion was noted on the palatal gingiva of teeth #8 and #9. Radiographic, clinical findings, and history of the present illness led to the differential diagnosis of peripheral fibroma, peripheral giant cell lesion, or pyogenic granuloma. The lesion was excised and POF was identified. No recurrence has been reported at 4 months.  If untreated, POF can grow larger and cause damage to surrounding teeth and bone. Early diagnosis and complete excision is vital to the management of POF.