Oral Surgey

Dentigerous cyst

Is a fluid-filled sac that forms around the crown of an unerupted permanent tooth, most commonly the mandibular third molar (wisdom tooth). These benign, slow-growing cysts are often discovered during routine dental x-rays and can cause swelling or tooth displacement if they become large enough. Treatment is surgical, with the cyst and impacted tooth typically removed, but larger cysts may require different procedures to avoid jaw fracture. Recurrence rates are extremely low.

Keratocystic odontogenic cysts (KCOTs)

Formerly odontogenic keratocysts (OKCs), are benign but aggressive developmental cysts in the jaw that have a high recurrence rate. They are thought to originate from dental lamina remnants and often occur in the posterior mandible, but can also develop elsewhere. Due to their aggressive local behavior and tendency to recur, treatment often involves more than just surgical removal and may include adjunctive therapies like chemical treatment, peripheral bone removal, or monitoring.

Ameloblastoma

is a rare group of benign tumours that develops from tooth-forming cells and most often appears in the jawbone, particularly the lower jaw. While typically slow-growing and noncancerous, it can be locally aggressive, causing pain, swelling, and bone destruction, and has a high rate of recurrence. Treatment will depend on the type of ameloblastoma but usually involves aggressive surgical removal, with long-term follow-up being crucial.

Benign oral lesions

fibromas, mucoceles, canker sores, and warts. These lesions are not life-threatening and do not spread to other parts of the body, but they may require medical treatment depending on the type and cause. They are be related to deficiencies in the blood requiring blood tests and common treatments include surgical removal to confirm the diagnosis, cryotherapy, or topical medications.

Common benign oral lesions

Fibroma

A smooth, firm, pink lump, often caused by irritation, that can be removed surgically.

Mucocele

A bluish, swollen sac caused by a blocked or damaged salivary gland that may periodically rupture.

Aphthous ulcers

Painful, yellowish-white sores with a red border that usually heal on their own within two weeks.

Papillomas (Warts)

Growths caused by HPV that may go away on their own or be treated with medication or surgery.

Leukoplakia

A white patch on the oral mucosa that does not wipe off. It requires monitoring as it can, in rare cases, be precancerous.

Lichen Planus

A chronic inflammatory condition that can appear as white, lacy patches or red, swollen patches on the oral mucosa.

Herpes labialis

Blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus that appear on the lips and around the mouth.

Amalgam Tattoos

Dark spots that occur when amalgam particles from fillings become embedded in the gum or other oral tissue.