Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

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What is the recommended treatment for a lateral periodontal cyst?

Root canal therapy
Surgical removal
Observation only
Medication therapy

The correct answer is: Surgical removal

The recommended treatment for a lateral periodontal cyst is surgical removal. This approach is based on the nature of the cyst, which is typically an asymptomatic, odontogenic cyst that arises from the lateral aspect of a tooth root or from the periodontal ligament. Surgical removal is necessary to eliminate the cyst completely and prevent potential complications, such as infection or bone loss. Patients presenting with a lateral periodontal cyst usually do not respond to conservative treatments, as these cysts do not resolve on their own or through medication. Observation may be a viable option in some cases of minimal pathology; however, it is generally not ideal for a confirmed diagnosis of a lateral periodontal cyst, as intervention is required to manage this condition effectively. Similarly, root canal therapy is not appropriate because the cyst is not a direct product of pulpal disease but rather associated with the periodontal tissues. Therefore, the surgical excision ensures proper treatment and reduces the risk of recurrence.