Dentigerous cysts are formed when an adult tooth does not erupt properly. This is more common in boxer dogs, but can occur in any breed and usually involves the first lower premolar tooth (the first tooth behind the canine).
Sometimes they can go unnoticed and the only thing visible is a missing tooth. As the cysts grow, they will be more noticeable and a firm swelling of the gum can be seen and felt.
Treatment involves removal of the tooth and the cyst lining. The lining is what will continue to produce fluid and cause the cyst to grow, so it is important that all of it is removed. For larger cysts, this can be challenging, so sometimes a technique called ‘marsupialisation’ is required.
Treatment of dentigerous cysts:
- Surgery: A thorough dental assessment under general anaesthetic, extraction of the affected tooth/teeth, and either removal or marsupialisation of the cyst.
- Medications: Pre-and post-operative pain management. Anti-inflammatories +/- additional pain relief.
- Follow-up checks to assess the healing of the cyst
Marsupialisation:
The tooth is still removed, but a hole is created in the cyst which is then left to drain on its own. This allows the cyst to gradually shrink and heal over time. This can take approximately 3 months.