Description A cyst is a sac or ...
Description
A cyst is a sac or pouch that forms under the skin or in bone. Oral cysts are found in the head or neck. They can be in the jawbone, salivary glands, or mouth. There are many types of cysts. The most common type of oral cyst develops as a result of an infection in the tooth pulp, or nerve. Other common oral cysts may form at the crowns of teeth that have not fully come into the mouth (impacted teeth).
Symptoms
Often there are no symptoms. A cyst in soft tissue usually does not cause pain unless it becomes infected or you bite down on it by accident. Larger bone cysts may weaken the jawbone and be painful if infected. They also can cause the jawbone to bulge and teeth to move.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed along with X-rays. The dentist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon will perform a biopsy to get a sample of the fluid or tissue within the cyst. This sample will be analyzed in a laboratory to determine the diagnosis and best treatment.
Other Specific Tests: X-rays, CT scan, MRI
Specialists:
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dentistry, Dentistry - Pediatric
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed along with X-rays. The dentist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon will perform a biopsy to get a sample of the fluid or tissue within the cyst. This sample will be analyzed in a laboratory to determine the diagnosis and best treatment.
Other Specific Tests: X-rays, CT scan, MRI
Specialists:
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dentistry, Dentistry - Pediatric
Treatment
Treatment involves removing the cyst by surgery. This procedure is performed with local anesthesia, sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the location and size of the cyst. If the cyst is infected, you may be given antibiotics. The outlook is excellent. However, some cysts grow back.