Well Defined Unilocular Radiolucencies

Content

This course helps dental professionals develop familiarity with the radiological features of well defined unilocular radiolucencies on 2D radiographs and CBCT. It covers differential diagnoses of these lesions commonly encountered in the jaws. Lesions that present as well-defined radiolucencies include cysts and neoplasms. Cysts are common and most are inflammatory. Almost all true cysts and most benign neoplasms expand by hydrostatic pressure and therefore appear spherical or nearly spherical. Larger lesions achieve this shape by displacing buccal and lingual cortices, resulting in buccolingual expansion. Odontogenic or non-odontogenic lesions may displace the mandibular canal, resorb adjacent teeth, and expand the cortices when sufficiently large. The course addresses the radiological appearance of the most common well defined unilocular radiolucencies of the jaws and highlights the importance of early detection and management. Participants review the radiographic appearance of these lesions on 2D and CBCT images. They learn the pathophysiology and clinical features of the most common examples. Emphasis is placed on the value of early detection and management.

Goals

Cysts are common and the majority are inflammatory. Almost all true cysts and most benign neoplasms expand by hydrostatic pressure and are therefore frequently spherical or nearly spherical in shape. This shape is achieved in larger cysts and neoplasms by displacing the buccal and lingual cortices and presenting as buccolingual expansion. Odontogenic or non odontogenic lesions, arising within the jaws, if sufficiently large will displace the mandibular canal, create resorption of the adjacent teeth and expand the cortices. It is essential for a dental professional to be familiar with the radiological appearance of the most common well defined unilocular radiolucencies of the jaws and the importance of early detection and management of such lesions.

Prerequisites

No requirements

Included