Are dental implants the first option in case of severely compromised teeth associated with radicular cyst? A critical case report

Abstract

Background Nowadays, dental implants are frequently used to replace teeth judged as hopeless, even if other treatments should be primarily considered to save them. The reason lies in the fact that extracting a tooth and placing an implant is erroneously considered by many to be easier, faster, and more predictable. This trend of reduced willingness to save compromised teeth is strengthened by the concomitant presence of periapical tooth pathologies, such as radicular cyst. In such cases, affected teeth are condemned prematurely in favour of implant rehabilitations. This case report aims to illustrate a case where compromised teeth were maintained following the enucleation of a radicular cyst, Case report After enucleation of the radicular cyst, retrograde endodontic treatment of the affected teeth was performed. The residual bone defect was then treated with guided bone regeneration to assist and promote healing and improve the prognosis of adjacent teeth. Conclusion The technique proved to be effective and, most importantly, biologically friendly.