Pathology of the teeth: an update

Teeth are rarely submitted to general histopathology departments, meaning exposure to tooth pathology is largely restricted to those working in oral and maxillofacial pathology services. This paper aims to give pragmatic advice regarding the assessment, processing and clinical information that is pertinent to the sound diagnosis of tooth pathology, even if the purpose is effective onward referral of cases with all the information which is required. The main disorders that affect tooth form and structure will be discussed together with an update on the classification of abnormalities of dentine. The relevant syndromes and environmental factors which can affect tooth structure will also be described.