Incidental Findings of Muscle-Origin Calcifications in the Sternocleidomastoid Muscle on an Orthopantomogram

Calcifications of muscular origin are rare findings in dental panoramic radiographs and can pose diagnostic challenges if not properly identified. This case report describes the incidental discovery of bilateral calcifications within the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle on a routine dental panoramic radiograph. A comprehensive differential diagnosis was considered, including trauma, inflammation, metabolic disorders, and idiopathic conditions. The absence of systemic disorders or recent trauma supported a diagnosis of dystrophic calcifications of the SCM muscle. This case underscores the importance of evaluating anatomical structures beyond the dental and bony regions in panoramic radiography to avoid misdiagnosis.