Appearance can be deceptive: Dentigerous cyst crossing the midline

Area of Science:

• Dentigerous cysts are developmental odontogenic cysts.
• This study focuses on a rare case of dentigerous cyst in an elderly patient.

Background:

• Dentigerous cysts arise from the reduced enamel epithelium and surround the crown of an unerupted tooth.
• They are typically asymptomatic, slow-growing lesions discovered incidentally on radiographs, most commonly affecting posterior teeth.

Observation:

• A case report of an 80-year-old male with a dentigerous cyst in the anterior mandible is presented.
• The cyst enveloped an impacted canine, crossed the midline, and was asymptomatic with no cortical expansion.

Findings:

• Radiographic examination revealed a well-defined radiolucency with a sclerotic border associated with the impacted canine crown.
• Despite its size and location, the cyst did not cause clinical expansion or discomfort.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering dentigerous cysts in atypical locations and age groups.
• It underscores the need for thorough radiographic evaluation and appropriate management based on cyst characteristics and patient factors.