[Three-dimensional analysis for changes in dentigerous cyst-associated maxillary canines after marsupialization in...

To observe three-dimensional changes of dentigerous cyst-associated maxillary canines (DCAMC) in adolescents after marsupialization by using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).
 Methods: A total of 34 DCAMC patients with dentigerous cyst aged 10-14 were divided into central type and lateral type, while canines on the non-cyst side served as a control. A three-dimensional reference frame was set up to analyze the position, angle changes and influential factors for DCAMC by using CBCT before operation and in 3-6 month after operation.
 Results: 1) Compared with pre-operation, there was significant vertical movement in DCAMC after marsupialization. Tip of tooth moved labially while tooth axis inclined mesiodistally; 2) Horizontal, vertical movement and mesiodistal inclination of DCAMC were significantly greater than those in the health side; 3) Compared with the lateral type DCAMC, the central type DCAMC showed a significant changes in labial inclination; 4) Horizontal movement, mesiodistal and labial inclination of lateral type DCAMC were all evidently greater than those of the central type DCAMC; 5) Vertical movement and inclination of DCAMC after marsupialization were significantly correlated to the time interval (r=0.354, 0.374, both P<0.05), while vertical movement of cuspid in health side was significantly negative correlated with the patients' age and the level of root formation (r=-0.506, -0.721, both P<0.01).
 Conclusion: DCAMC in adolescents can obtain obvious changes in position and angles after marsupialization regardless of the level of root formation, which is beneficial for further orthodontic treatment.