Dental cysts are a common oral pathology that can cause significant pain. But what are dental cysts, exactly? What causes them? How can they be removed?
We answer these questions and more in this article.
What is a dental cyst?
Dental cysts are small fluid-filled sacs that develop at the apex of the tooth (the end of the root). These growths are considered benign tumours and can develop whether the tooth is dead or healthy.
What causes dental cysts?
Specialists have identified two main causes of dental cysts: infections and accidents.
Dental cysts caused by an infection can form when a cavity is poorly treated or a tooth dies. In such situations, bacteria can proliferate in the root canal and cause a bone infection. A cyst can form near the root of the tooth as a result.
Dental cysts can also form after an accident such as a jaw fracture or any kind of shock to the mouth and teeth. Such accidents can cause a tooth to die, which, if unnoticed and untreated, can lead to the formation of a dental cyst.
Symptoms of dental cysts
Unfortunately, the early signs of dental cysts are difficult for patients to perceive. A dental specialist may be able to identify the lump early, but that isn’t always possible.
As the cyst develops, the patient is likely to experience the following symptoms:
- Tooth pain
- A tooth that moves
- A dental fistula
- Feeling pressure in the tooth
- Bleeding gums
- Spontaneous tooth fractures
- Sudden bite problems
How to remove a dental cyst
The only effective treatment for dental cysts is exeresis, a surgical procedure that involves removing the cyst from the patient. The surgery is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgery specialist and can be done under local or general anaesthetic, depending on the gravity of the situation.
After excising the cyst, it’s also important to treat its cause. For example, the tooth responsible can be extracted, or a root canal can be performed to treat the infection.
Dental cyst treatment at Clinique Evoro
Dental cysts are little tumours that form around the root of a tooth. They can be caused by an infection or an accident that impacts the jaw. The only way to treat a dental cyst is to have a maxillofacial surgeon perform an exeresis.
Do you live in the Gatineau area and need a dental cyst removed? The surgeons at Clinique Evoro will give you a warm welcome and effective treatment for your dental cyst. Contact us to make an appointment!