5 Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Cysts

Dental cysts are initially free of any infection but if left to grow without treatment, they may gradually damage your healthy teeth and smile forever. As long as you get them treated early or take proper action following your dentist’s recommendation, your oral health will be fine. In today’s blog post, we’ve answered six frequently asked questions about dental cysts to help you stay informed.

1. What is a Dental Cyst?

A dental cyst is a sac of tissue that develops around or next to teeth. The sac can be filled with soft material, fluid, or air. A dental cyst is a form of inflammation and as it grows, it exerts an extreme amount of pressure on the bone structure around the teeth.

2. Why do Dental Cysts Develop?

Typically, dental cysts grow around the tip of dead teeth or the roots of buried teeth as the bacteria in the teeth grow. The condition can get worse when it develops around a tooth that hasn’t erupted well such as a wisdom tooth or that aren’t developing properly. In rare cases, dental cyst formation can be a genetic problem.

3. What are the Different Types of Dental Cysts?

There can be various types of dental cysts based on their location.

• Periapical Cysts: It’s the most common type of dental cysts and it occurs at the root tip of dead teeth. It’s caused by the death or infection of the pulp (nerve) of a decayed or cracked tooth. As the pulp dies, it releases toxins and causes inflammation at the root tip.
• Keratocysts: They usually occur in the posterior area of the mandible or the lower jaw and are the result of trauma or genetics. With swelling as the sole symptom, these dental cysts are aggressive and can reoccur after surgical removal.
• Dentigerous Cysts: Also known as follicular cysts, they’re commonly found growing around partially-erupted or unerupted teeth. It’s mainly caused by the pressure exerted on the follicle by an erupting tooth. This obstructs the blood flow creating fluid accumulation between the coronal area of the tooth and the enamel membrane.

4. What Oral Problems can Dental Cysts Create?

Cysts can remain undetected for months or even years. They create several problems as they grow such as pain and swelling, weakening of jaws, preventing normal functioning of teeth and the tissues of the mouth, pressing against teeth and bone structure.

5. How to Treat Dental Cysts?

The condition should be first examined by a dentist or a maxillofacial surgeon. Depending on the size, location, and type of the cyst, he/she will then recommend the best treatment to address the issue. Endodontic or root canal therapy may be required if a cyst forms at the root of a tooth.

As the cysts are initially asymptomatic, you may not even realize it’s there. Regular dental checkups are, therefore, crucial to detect and treat them as early as possible. At Dentistry on Dusk, we’re committed to serving you with advanced dental technologies. Make an appointment for a checkup!