Vol. 7, Issue 11, Part E (2021)

Abstract
Gingival growths may pose a challenge in clinical identification and diagnosis. They should be differentially diagnosed before deciding the appropriate treatment plan. Peripheral ossifying fibroma (POF) is one such benign overgrowth of the gingiva which is commonly observed in young adults with an incidence range of 8-9% of all gingival overgrowths. This article describes a case of a male patient who reported with a growth measuring around 1x2 cm² in the lingual aspect of the mandibular anterior teeth, hard in consistency, extending from 42 to 44. Diode laser excision followed by flap reflection and debridement was employed. The growth was diagnosed as peripheral ossifying fibroma based on the characteristic clinical and histopathological features. The patient was followed up for 1 year and no adverse events or recurrence was observed. Peripheral ossifying fibroma is a rare solitary enlargement which is frequently misdiagnosed. A definitive diagnosis is arrived at through histopathological examination.