Dental cysts are fluid-filled sacs or cavities that develop within the jawbone or soft tissues of the oral cavity. These cysts can arise from various sources, including developmental anomalies, inflammation, or remnants of tooth structures. Dental cysts may be asymptomatic and discovered incidentally on dental radiographs, or they may cause symptoms such as pain, swelling, or tooth displacement.

Here are some key points about dental cysts:

1. Types of Dental Cysts:

• Radicular cysts: Also known as periapical cysts, radicular cysts are the most common type of dental cyst and typically develop as a result of inflammation or infection in the tooth pulp (root canal system). They occur at the apex (tip) of a non-vital tooth (a tooth with a dead or necrotic pulp) and may be associated with chronic dental caries, trauma, or failed root canal treatment.
• Dentigerous cysts: Dentigerous cysts, also called follicular cysts, form around the crown of an unerupted or impacted tooth, typically the crown of an impacted wisdom tooth or an impacted canine tooth. These cysts arise from the remnants of the tooth-forming epithelial tissue (dental follicle) and may expand and cause displacement or resorption of adjacent teeth.
• Odontogenic keratocysts: Odontogenic keratocysts are aggressive and recurrent cystic lesions that originate from the remnants of the dental lamina or enamel organ. They commonly occur in the posterior mandible and may cause jaw expansion, displacement of teeth, and cortical perforation.
• Residual cysts: Residual cysts are radicular cysts that persist after the extraction of the associated tooth. They result from incomplete removal of the cystic lining during tooth extraction and may require surgical intervention for definitive treatment.
• Paradental cysts: Paradental cysts, also known as lateral periodontal cysts, develop adjacent to the roots of vital teeth and are thought to arise from the periodontal ligament. They are typically small and asymptomatic and may be discovered incidentally on dental radiographs.

1. Clinical Presentation:

• Dental cysts may be asymptomatic and discovered during routine dental examinations or radiographic evaluations.
• Symptomatic cysts may present with symptoms such as pain, swelling, tenderness, or palpable soft tissue mass in the affected area.
• Cysts located in the jaws may cause expansion of the bone and displacement or resorption of adjacent teeth.

1. Diagnosis:

• Diagnosis of dental cysts involves clinical examination, radiographic evaluation, and sometimes histopathological examination of tissue samples obtained through biopsy.
• Dental radiographs, including periapical, panoramic, or cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images, are essential for visualizing the size, location, and characteristics of the cystic lesion.

1. Treatment:

• Treatment of dental cysts typically involves surgical intervention to remove the cystic lesion and prevent recurrence or complications.
• Depending on the type, size, and location of the cyst, treatment options may include:
  • Enucleation: Surgical removal of the entire cystic lesion, including the surrounding cystic lining, to prevent recurrence.
  • Marsupialization: Surgical procedure to create a surgical window or opening in the cystic lesion, allowing drainage and decompression of the cyst before complete removal.
  • Decompression: Placement of a drainage tube or catheter into the cystic lesion to reduce its size and decompress the surrounding tissues before definitive surgical intervention.
  • Histopathological examination: Evaluation of tissue samples obtained from the cystic lesion to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential causes of oral pathology.

In summary, dental cysts are fluid-filled sacs or cavities that develop within the jawbone or soft tissues of the oral cavity. These cysts can arise from various sources, including inflammation, developmental anomalies, or remnants of tooth structures. Diagnosis and treatment of dental cysts require a comprehensive approach involving clinical examination, radiographic evaluation, and sometimes histopathological examination. Early detection and appropriate management are essential for preventing complications and preserving oral health.