Cysts of the Jaw

Course Outline

All true cysts of the jaws are defined as pathologic lesions having a fibrous connective tissue wall with a central lumen that is lined by epithelium and usually contains fluid. The type of epithelium can vary with most lesions having stratified squamous but some developmental or fissural cysts in the maxilla may have respiratory epithelium. Cysts of the jaws can be classified as 1) odontogenic (arising from tooth-forming tissues) and 2) nonodontogenic (developmental or fissural). We will also include a third category known as pseudocysts. These are lesions which often appear radiographically as cysts and some are mistakenly called cysts by name.

The discussion of each cyst and pseudocyst is followed by a unique listing called Signs and Symptoms Capsule which is a list of possible pertinent signs and symptoms for each diagnosis included in the course. These capsules can serve as a quick resource for comparing the various cysts of the jaws. However, it is important to understand that these lists of signs and symptoms be considered as though some, all or none may be seen or may not be seen in individual cases of the various cystic lesions.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course you’ll be able to:

  1. Define a true cyst versus a pseudocyst.
  2. Distinguish between odontogenic cysts and non-odontogenic cysts.
  3. Distinguish between the relative growth potential of different jaw cysts.
  4. Predict which cysts need careful follow-up because of potential recurrence.
  5. Recognize clinical presentation of the different cysts.
  1. Recognize radiographic presentation of the different cysts.
  2. Know which anatomical sites are likely locations for various cysts.
  3. Know the appropriate treatment for the different cysts.
  4. Prepare sedative dressing.
  5. Perform coronal polishing of patient’s teeth.

Course Contents

1. Odontogenic Cysts

  • Apical Periodontal Cyst (Radicular Cyst)
  • Residual Cyst
  • Dentigerous Cyst (Follicular Cyst)
  • Eruption Cyst
  • Primordial Cyst
  • Odontogenic Keratocyst (Keratocystic Odontogenic Tumor)
  • Lateral Periodontal Cyst
  • Keratinizing and Calcifying Odontogenic Cysts
  • Gingival Cyst

2. Non-Odontogenic Cysts (Fissural Cysts)

  • Nasopalatine Duct Cyst (Incisive Canal Cyst)
  • Median Palatal Cyst
  • Globulomaxillary Cyst
  • Nasolabial Cyst (Nasoalveolar Cyst)
  • Branchial Cleft Cyst (Lymphoepithelial Cyst)
  • Thyroglossal Duct Cyst
  • Dermoid and Epidermoid Cysts

2. Pseudocysts of the Jaws

  • Traumatic Bone Cyst (Simple Bone, Unicameral Bone Cyst)
  • Static Bone Cyst (Stafne Defect, Salivary Gland Inclusion Defect)
  • Aneurysmal Bone Cyst

4. Bibliography