No abstract

The nasopalatine cyst (NPC) was first described in 1914 and it is considered the most common non-odontogenic cyst. Most studies show a higher incidence of NPC among males than females, with a male/female ratio of 1.7:1. The majority of the cases described in people in their fifth decade involve Afro-Caribbeans, while those in their sixth decade are mainly caucasians. These cysts are normally asymptomatic, unless they are infected. The most commonly reported clinical symptom is swelling in the anterior part of the palate. The treatment of choice is enucleation. Even though it has been stated that NPCs may occur at any age no reports have been made on children less than 9 years old. Some reports support a predisposition in young Afro-Caribbeans, where NPCs appear to be more aggressive, larger and symptomatic. We present a case of a NPC in an 8-year-old caucasian female.

No abstract

Seven examples of neoplasia which presented as periapical radiolucencies are described. These were all initially treated for presumed periapical infection. The atypical features that should alert dentists to the possibility of a tumour presenting in this manner are: a vital tooth with minimal caries, root resorption and an irregular radiolucent outline, tooth mobility in the absence of generalised periodontal disease, regional nerve anaesthesia, and failure to respond to good endodontic therapy. All material removed at the time of apical surgery must be examined histologically to prevent neoplasia being overlooked.

The successful management of labially unerupted maxillary central incisors requires a coordinated surgical, orthodontic and general practitioner approach. The key to achieving maximal eruption of these teeth is their surgical exposure, central to which is the philosophy that the surgeon must provide a functional width of attached gingiva on the labial surface. This case describes the incorporation of palatal mucosa into an apically repositioned flap, resulting in the successful establishment of an attached gingival margin, where routine flap design would have seriously compromised the eventual outcome.