No symptoms?
A finding may still require assessment.
← All explanationsDentigerous cyst
What is a cyst around an unerupted tooth crown?
A dentigerous or follicular cyst is a fluid-filled cavity associated with the crown of an unerupted tooth. It may initially cause no symptoms. An X-ray appearance alone does not always establish the final diagnosis.
For training & practice ↓
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Choose a view
Related to the crown
The typical location is around a tooth crown within the jaw. This differs from an inflammatory cyst related to a tooth root.
Combine images and tissue
The location and extent are assessed. Other conditions can look similar; examining removed tissue helps clarify the diagnosis.
Plan appropriate treatment
Different surgical approaches may be considered depending on size, location and the tooth involved. Tooth preservation and follow-up are discussed individually.
Read the full explanation
Related to the crown
The typical location is around a tooth crown within the jaw. This differs from an inflammatory cyst related to a tooth root.
Combine images and tissue
The location and extent are assessed. Other conditions can look similar; examining removed tissue helps clarify the diagnosis.
Plan appropriate treatment
Different surgical approaches may be considered depending on size, location and the tooth involved. Tooth preservation and follow-up are discussed individually.
Notes on the teaching images
- Classical central example · schematic position
- Left crown, right root · separate examples
- Same model · relate findings to planning
At a glance
Visible from outside?
Not reliably.
Next step?
Discuss the finding and treatment plan.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
Three steps. No audio.
Each scene can also be selected manually.
Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.
Often confused
Distinguish cyst types
Dentigerous describes the relationship to an unerupted crown. A radicular cyst is a different type, typically related to the root of a tooth with a necrotic pulp.
Quick answers
Does a cyst have to hurt?
No. Some are found on imaging taken for another reason.
Is every space around a crown a cyst?
No. A normal or enlarged dental follicle and other conditions may look similar.
Must the associated tooth always be removed?
Not automatically. Its position, suitability for preservation and treatment plan guide the decision.
At the practice
For the appointment
You can bring this question to your appointment:
How certain is the diagnosis, and what options exist for the associated tooth?
An examination can clarify the finding and any need for referral.
Arrange an assessmentAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Pericoronal
- Situated around a tooth crown.
- Histopathology
- Microscopic tissue examination to identify a change.
Make the distinction
Dentigerous describes the relationship to an unerupted crown. A radicular cyst is a different type, typically related to the root of a tooth with a necrotic pulp.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.