Dentigerous Cyst
Pronunciation: den-TIJ-er-us sist
A developmental odontogenic cyst that forms around the crown of an unerupted tooth, attached at the cementoenamel junction.
Full Definition
The dentigerous cyst is the most common developmental odontogenic cyst, arising from the reduced enamel epithelium surrounding the crown of an impacted or unerupted tooth, most frequently affecting mandibular third molars and maxillary canines. Radiographically, it appears as a well-defined, corticated radiolucency attached to the cementoenamel junction and enclosing the crown. Editorial review of radiology and pathology reports should confirm correct attachment site description (CEJ), as this distinguishes dentigerous from other pericoronal radiolucencies. Histopathological confirmation should be noted; the abbreviation 'CEJ' should be defined at first use. The adjective form is 'dentigerous', not 'dentigenous'.
Usage
Usage note: The correct spelling is 'dentigerous' (not 'dentigenous'). Always specify the tooth involved and confirm radiographic attachment at the CEJ in editorial review.
In Context
- "CT imaging demonstrated a large dentigerous cyst associated with an ectopic maxillary canine, displacing adjacent teeth." — Radiology report
- "The histopathology request form must specify 'dentigerous cyst' rather than the informal 'follicle cyst' to ensure accurate laboratory coding." — Laboratory request editorial guidance