What is the recommended treatment for fibrous dysplasia if it affects a small area?

The recommended treatment for fibrous dysplasia in cases where it affects a small area is complete excision. This approach is most suitable for localized lesions because it allows for the removal of the fibrous tissue while attempting to preserve surrounding healthy bone and soft tissue. Complete excision can improve function, cosmetic appearance, and prevent potential complications associated with the condition.

This treatment option is favored as fibrous dysplasia is a benign bone lesion, and while the condition can be stable, complete excision of a small lesion can often result in a favorable prognosis and alleviation of symptoms. However, care must be taken, as younger patients may have ongoing skeletal development, which can influence the decision on how to proceed.

Other treatments like resection might be more appropriate for larger, more aggressive lesions but are not typically indicated for small affected areas. Irradiation is generally not used in managing fibrous dysplasia due to the risk of malignant transformation and is not standard based on current practice guidelines. The excision of adjacent teeth is not a primary treatment option; the focus is on addressing the dysplastic bone rather than impacting healthy dental structures.