Nasopalatine duct cyst: A jigsaw puzzle

Abstract

For the success of endodontic treatment outcome, diagnosis plays a very important role. Endodontic diagnosis is similar to a jigsaw puzzle which cannot be made from a single isolated piece of information. Radiography plays a vital role in diagnosing dental diseases. Overcoming the major disadvantage of two dimensional imaging of superimposing the dento-alveolar structures, 3 dimensional images by Cone Beam Computed Tomography is of great help. It is very common that when radiographs show a superimposition of the incisive foramen over the apex of maxillary central incisors, mimicking apical periodontitis, unnecessary endodontic treatment or retreatment may be prescribed. Diseases of non endodontic origin that affect the tooth apex, such as Nasopalatine duct cyst, should be included in the differential diagnosis. In the present case report the role of CBCT in diagnosis is being discussed.