Odontogenic tumors described in early childhood: a scoping review protocol

This protocol outlines a scoping review conducted in accordance with the methodological guidance of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) and reported in compliance with the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) checklist. Odontogenic tumors represent a heterogeneous group of neoplasms originating from tissues involved in odontogenesis. Although these tumors are relatively well documented in adolescents and young adults, the spectrum of odontogenic tumors occurring in early childhood (0–5 years) remains insufficiently systematized and is typically described through isolated case reports or small case series. Distinct biological factors, including craniofacial growth, deciduous dentition, and early odontogenic development, may influence the clinical, radiographic, and pathological features of odontogenic tumors in this age group. Consequently, an evidence gap persists regarding the types of odontogenic tumors described in early childhood and the manner in which they are classified and reported in the literature. A scoping review is therefore warranted to map the existing evidence, identify the types of odontogenic tumors reported in early childhood, summarize their documented characteristics, and highlight gaps in the literature.