Kim Loos Dr. Kimberly A. Loos practices general dentistry in San Jose, California. She is also a clinical instructor at University of Pacific School of Dentistry and an editor for Dentistry On-Line. Dear Keltie, There are several different categories of odontogenic cysts.
Odontogenic cysts are developmental cysts arising from the enamel organ of teeth.
While it is sometimes difficult to distinguish which type of odontogenic cyst is present, some have distinguishing features. The radicular cyst is the most common of the odontogenic cysts. It sounds unlikely that this is the type of cyst you have. Other odontogenic cysts which do not sound likely from your description include residual cysts associated with the removal of teeth, primordial cysts associated with undeveloped teeth, and globulomaxillary cysts located in the anterior region of the upper jaw. The most likely type of odontogenic cyst you may have is the dentigerous cyst or follicular cyst.