Paradental cysts on mandibular first molars in children: report of five cases

Five cases of paradental cyst are reported which were found to arise buccal to a mandibular first permanent molar in children under the age of 10 years. The justification for calling these lesions paradental cysts is discussed. Since the histopathological findings of this lesion are non-specific, the clinical and radiographic features are of prime importance in diagnosis when the lesion occurs in this site in patients of this age. Buccal swelling adjacent to a mandibular first molar which is partially erupted or which has a soft tissue cover is a common clinical finding. Occlusal projections generally give the best presurgical diagnostic information, demonstrating the presence of a radiolucent lesion with a periosteal bone reaction buccal to the involved tooth and displacement of the roots to the lingual. The cyst can be successfully treated by simple enucleation without disturbing the associated tooth.