Guided Bone Regeneration in the Treatment of Lateral Periodontal Cysts

The lateral periodontal cyst (LPC) is a rare, noninflammatory developmental odontogenic cyst typically associated with the roots of vital teeth. Often asymptomatic, LPCs are frequently discovered incidentally during routine radiographic examinations. This case report presents the diagnosis and treatment of an LPC in a 56-year-old female and discusses relevant diagnostic and therapeutic considerations. A 56-year-old female patient, presenting for a routine recall appointment, was found to have a radiolucent area lateral to the mesial root of tooth #44 on radiographic examination. Clinical findings were unremarkable, suggesting a presumptive diagnosis of an LPC. Due to a subsequent crown failure rendering the tooth unrestorable, surgical intervention involved simultaneous extraction of tooth #44, complete enucleation of the cystic lesion, and guided bone regeneration (GBR) to address the resultant bone defect. A biopsy was obtained for definitive histopathologic confirmation. Histopathologic analysis confirmed the diagnosis of a benign cyst consistent with the characteristics of an LPC. The patient was monitored for six months postoperatively, with both clinical and radiographic evaluations showing no evidence of recurrence, indicating a successful outcome with complete bone fill in the treated area. In summary, LPC is an uncommon and often asymptomatic lesion requiring histological confirmation for accurate diagnosis. Surgical removal, coupled with bone regeneration techniques like GBR to manage post-enucleation defects, offers a favorable prognosis with a low risk of recurrence. Early detection through routine radiographic screening remains crucial for timely intervention and optimal patient outcomes.