A lateral periodontal cyst (LPC) is an uncommon, benign cyst in the jaw that usually appears, between your tooth and the gum. Unlike more common cysts, the lateral periodontal cyst is typically painless and often only identified during routine dental X-rays. Although it’s a benign condition, it can grow with time, which is why it’s crucial to identify its symptoms, causes, and treatment options. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about lateral periodontal cysts, with insights from research.
What Is a Lateral Periodontal Cyst?
A lateral periodontal cyst is an expansion of cyst, meaning it forms as a result of cellular changes in the tissues near your teeth. Usually appearing in your lower jaw between the premolar areas and, it can build in adults of any age, though it is most commonly diagnosed in middle-aged people. These cysts are rare because they are found next to a healthy tooth root, differentiating them from other cyst types such as periapical cysts, which typically occur due to an infection.
Key Characteristics of Lateral Periodontal Cysts
- Location: Typically appears in your lower jaw (mandible) close to the premolars.
- Size: Usually, small (1 cm or less) in diameter.
- Symptoms: Generally shows no symptoms and is painless unless it develops significantly.
- Growth Rate: Usually slow-growing but can inflate if you leave it untreated.
Symptoms of a Lateral Periodontal Cyst
Since lateral periodontal cysts are generally asymptomatic, maybe you will be unaware you have one until you get regular dental checkups. However, you may experience:
- Gum irritation: Feeling of discomfort in the cyst area.
- Mild gum swelling: visible or minor swelling close to the affected area.
- Tooth mobility: If the cyst develops large, it may lead to slight shifting or loosening of close by teeth.
Routine dental checkups and imaging (X-rays) are important for early diagnosis, as these cysts can remain unaware for years without causing discomfort.
Causes and Risk Factors of Lateral Periodontal Cysts
Research on lateral periodontal cysts showed that these cysts develop from the dental lamina—the tissue responsible for tooth formation. However, the exact causes remain uncertain. Some potential factors that may impact your cyst formation such as:
- Age: If your age is more than 40 years old.
- Genetic predisposition: If you have a genetic history of lateral periodontal cyst
- Gum health: If you have persistent gum health problems you may have a lateral periodontal cyst. Other than the fact that you don’t have an active infection.
How Are Lateral Periodontal Cysts Diagnosed?
A lateral periodontal cyst is mostly diagnosed by chance during an X-ray for another dental issue. Dentists may notice a small, round, or oval-shaped radiolucent (dark) area on the X-ray, usually between the roots of the teeth. To confirm the diagnosis, a dentist may also use:
- Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT): Provides a 3D image for more detailed assessment.
- Biopsy: In some cases, a small sample is taken for microscopic examination to rule out other conditions, like a malignant cyst.
What Research Suggests About LPC Diagnosis
According to a study published in the Journal of Oral Pathology and Medicine, CBCT is exceedingly recommended for diagnosing rare wounds such as lateral periodontal cysts because it provides clearer imagery than regular X-rays.
Treatment Options
Since their benign nature, lateral periodontal cysts are typically treated through simple surgical removal. In this procedure, your surgeon will completely remove the cyst to prevent reappearance. Here are the common steps in treating an LPC you must know before getting treatment, so please keep reading We have many more facts related to lateral periodontal cysts:
- Surgical Removal: Your dentist or surgeon will take out the cyst and surrounding tissue under local anesthesia.
- Follow-up: After surgical removal, your surgeon will order follow-up X-rays to ensure no reappearance or complications.
- Antibiotics and Pain Management: They may prescribe you to prevent infection, with painkillers for post-surgical relief.
Advantage of the procedure: Most individuals recover promptly from this surgical procedure, with the least discomfort and a low risk of reappearance.
Complications and Recurrence
Despite the fact that LPC rarely leads to complications, it can develop if you leave it untreated, potentially causing close teeth to shift. Recurrence is possible but not common if the cyst is entirely removed. In cases of recurrence, further surgery or another surgical approach may be needed.
What Research Suggests About LPC Recurrence
A study in the International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery found that surgical removal has an elevated success rate with the least reappearance. This study highlights that careful exclusion is significant for long-term success.
Preventive Measures and Oral Health Tips
Since the accurate reasons for lateral periodontal cysts aren’t well understood, there aren’t straight preventive measures. However, maintaining your overall dental health can minimize the possibility of similar cysts and gum-related situations. Here are some suggested practices you should follow to prevent LPC:
- Healthy Diet: Consuming nutrient-rich foods can support strong gum and teeth health.
- Regular Dental Checkups: X-rays once a year can help you to identify asymptomatic cysts early.
- Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice every day, flossing, and using mouthwash can help to prevent LPC.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking can impact your gum health, and eventually, it slows your healing after dental surgeries.
Conclusion
LPC, though a rare and often asymptomatic condition, is crucial to diagnose and treat early to prevent any development or effect on close by teeth. Regular dental checkups and imaging (X-rays) can ensure that these cysts are recognized early and managed successfully. With accurate surgical removal, lateral periodontal cysts have a low reappearance rate, allowing you to maintain good oral health with minimal distress. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental appointments are your best protections against cysts and other oral health problems.
FAQs
Is it possible to treat a LPC without surgery?
Surgical excision is generally recommended for LPCs. Non-surgical options are not usually helpful.
Can an LPC turn cancerous?
Lateral periodontal cysts are benign and non-cancerous, and they hardly ever switch into malignant developments.
How common is recurrence after treatment of LPC?
Recurrence is uncommon but can occur if the cyst isn’t entirely removed. Regular follow-ups are essential.
Are there any specific symptoms that show a cyst is growing?
These are some signs that help you to identify LPC;
- Mid discomfort
- Slight tooth movement
- Swelling
What’s the difference between a lateral periodontal cyst and a periapical cyst?
LPC develops along with a healthy tooth root, while a periapical cyst typically forms due to infection at your tooth’s head (tip).
Will a lateral periodontal cyst cause tooth loss?
Usually, no. However, if untreated and growing, it may pressure neighboring teeth, potentially affecting stability.
