[Extensive odontogenic cysts of varying histological structure in an x-ray film]

As of now, a dental surgeon and a maxillofacial surgeon face a problem in choosing the optimal treatment of extensive cavitary masses in the maxillary bones. A detailed study of the characteristic x-ray manifestations of large jaw bone cavities makes it possible to give an insight into the pattern and extension rate of a destructive process, to choose the most optimal surgical treatment, and to yield more predictable results. The aim of this investigation was to analyze the morphological characteristics of large odontogenic cysts in the jaw bones and to reveal the main specific features of their x-ray picture in relation to their histological structure. An x-ray study determines the location, sizes, shape, and structure of the shadow of a cavity, its relation to the adjacent anatomic masses, as well as bone swelling, and preserved cortical laminae and facilitates the most correct presumptive diagnosis.