Spontaneous complete resolution of a radiolucent shadow associated with an impacted mandibular third molar

Impacted third molars are commonly associated with areas of radiolucency, and treatment can damage the adjacent structures, specifically the inferior alveolar nerve. We report a rare and interesting case of a large radiolucent area associated with an impacted mandibular wisdom tooth that resolved over 7 years with no intervention. We postulate that the unexpected movement of the tooth over this time caused spontaneous resolution of the cystic space, a natural decompression, which highlights the option of monitoring.