The paradental cyst: a clinicopathologic study of six new cases and review of the literature.

The paradental cyst is an inflammatory odontogenic cyst arising in conjunction with partially erupted vital teeth associated with pericoronitis. In this study of six cases, these cysts were found primarily adjacent to the buccal root surface of mandibular third molars. Radiographically, they presented as well-defined radiolucencies superimposed over the roots of the affected teeth. Where extracted teeth were available for examination, these cysts were usually associated with a developmental enamel projection or ridge extending into the buccal bifurcation. These developmental anomalies may be instrumental in the pathogenesis of paradental cysts. Although the paradental cyst may represent a distinct entity, a variant of the dentigerous cyst, or an occluded periodontal pocket, it is a useful descriptive term to explain the unique clinical, radiographic, and gross characteristics of this lesion.