Marsupialization of a large unilateral mandibular dentigerous cyst in a 6-year-old boy--a case report

This paper describes the case of a 6-year-old boy who presented with an asymptomatic large unilateral dentigerous cyst related to an unerupted 6. It was marsupialized under general anaesthetic, and subsequently resolved rapidly. The pathogenesis and aetiology of dentigerous cysts is discussed, together with alternative treatment modalities. This paper illustrates that a conservative surgical approach to the management of a dentigerous cyst in a child can be very successful. By preserving the associated permanent tooth, marsupialization minimizes any disruption to future dental development.