Conventional regular two-dimensional X-rays (2D) are not always sufficient to determine the extent and nature of a bone lesion or a lesion of the jaw associated with a tooth. In some cases the very presence of a lesion is only verifiable with 3D imaging because often 2D imaging superimposes neighboring structures and the actual lesion becomes blurred or less visible.

The situation presented here is one where there was no pain or any other symptoms at all. The patient actually came in for an implant consultation and this cyst was discovered. The patient was immediately referred out for biopsy and treatment. The lesion was found to be benign, it was cleaned out and bone grafting done to correct the defect.