Peripheral ameloblastoma is not widely known among clinicians. It has been reported in the literature as either basal cell carcinoma of the gingiva or a peripheral ameloblastoma, but, according to Gardner,’ the two should be considered a single entity. Understanding the benign nature of this lesion, that is, that there is a distinct difference in biologic behaviors between the intraosseous and the peripheral ameloblastomas, is imperative if unnecessarily destructive surgery is to be avoided. It is for this reason that we report the following case. Basal cell carcinoma or peripheral ameloblastoma occurring in other locations in the oral cavity2-6 are excluded from the discussion.