Pericoronal radiolucencies with and without radiopacities

Pericoronal radiolucencies are common entities of the jaws that account for about 15% to 20% of all biopsy specimens. They are usually slow-growing, benign entities that involve odontogenic epithelium and the crown of a nonerupting tooth. Many lesions develop early in life and are detected during routine radiographic examination. Others are found in later years when a patient presents with a slow-growing swelling. The dentist is often the first provider to encounter these conditions. Thus, he or she must be familiar with their appearance and understand the proper management required.