Dentigerous Cyst Associated with an Ectopic Tooth in the Subcondylar Area: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

ABSTRACT Dentigerous cysts associated with an ectopic third molar in the subcondylar area are fairly rare, and information is limited about its causes and characteristics. This article reports a case of dentigerous cysts associated with an ectopic third molar in the subcondylar and reviews the literature on the clinical signs and symptoms and different treatment methods of this condition. We report a case dentigerous cyst associated with an ectopic mandibular third molar in the subcondylar area. 14 cases of dentigerous cysts associated with an ectopic third molar in the subcondylar area reported in the English-language literature over the past 30 years, identified from Medline databases are also reviewed. We found a mean age at diagnosis of 48.1 years and a higher prevalence in women. Facial pain and swelling on the preauricular region or ipsilateral side of the mandible were the most common symptoms. Among the 14 case reports identified, 7 were by an extraoral approach and 7 were by an intraoral approach. The most commonly used extra-oral approaches are retromandibular. The etiology of ectopic mandibular third molars has not yet been completely clarified. They must be removed if they cause symptoms or are associ­ated with cystic pathology. The treatment of third molars in the condylar region is divided into conservative and, in most cases, surgical removal by intra or extra-oral route. The surgical approach must be carefully planned according to the location and posi­tion of ectopic third molars. Key words: Dentigerous, subcondylar, ectopic tooth.