Spontaneous regression of a dentigerous cyst associated with an impacted mandibular canine: a case report

Abstract

Dentigerous cysts are the second most common odontogenic cyst. The most frequently affected teeth are mandibular third molars and the incidence in mandibular canines is significantly less common. The management of dentigerous cysts is usually surgical enucleation, with extraction of the associated tooth if required. Spontaneously regressing dentigerous cysts are uncommon, but have been reported in the literature. However, this is the first reported case of a spontaneously resolving dentigerous cyst affecting an unerupted lower canine. A 12-year-old male presented with a retained deciduous canine and an asymptomatic radiolucency associated with an unerupted mandibular canine. This was provisionally diagnosed as a dentigerous cyst based on radiographic appearance. Over a period of 4 years, the cyst regressed without any surgical intervention. A cone beam computed tomogram was taken which confirmed the regression of the cyst and showed that the incisal edge of the canine had perforated the labial cortex of the mandible. This case supports the theory that if an unerupted tooth with an associated dentigerous cyst perforates bone or communicates with the oral cavity then spontaneous decompression and resolution of the cyst can occur.