Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the Dental OSCE with our quiz series. Master essential clinical skills through practical flashcards and multiple choice questions, each equipped with detailed explanations and helpful hints. Ace the exam!

Practice this question and more.


What is the appearance of ameloblastomas on a radiograph?

  1. Sunburst pattern

  2. Soap bubble pattern

  3. Ground-glass appearance

  4. Honeycomb appearance

The correct answer is: Soap bubble pattern

Ameloblastomas typically present on radiographs with a soap bubble appearance. This characteristic radiolucency is indicative of the tumor's aggressive nature and its tendency to cause cortical bone expansion. In particular, when viewed in two dimensions on a radiograph, the internal structure of the ameloblastoma often appears multi-locular or cystic, resembling soap bubbles. This appearance arises from the nature of the tumor, which consists of islands of neoplastic epithelial cells separated by fibrous tissue, leading to the distinct radiographic feature. The soap bubble appearance is particularly associated with the uniolocular or multilocular types of ameloblastomas, which can often be differentiated from other lesions based on this distinctive radiographic finding. Recognizing this unique pattern is crucial for diagnosis and guiding appropriate management of the condition.