Introduction
Buccal bifurcation cyst is an inflammatory odontogenic cyst and constitutes up to
5% of all odontogenic cysts. The aim of this study was to report a series of cases,
review the recent literature, and facilitate recognition and proper treatment of this
entity.
Methods
With institutional review board approval, the authors retrieved all archival cases
of buccal bifurcation cyst from the oral pathology biopsy service from 1994 through
2018. Patient age and sex, cyst location, clinician’s impression, radiographic appearance,
diagnosis, and treatment data were recorded.
Results
A total of 10 cases were identified. Average patient age was 9 years. A slight male
predilection was observed (n = 6, 60%). One hundred percent of cases were in the mandible,
including 3 (30%) bilateral cases.
Conclusions
Mandibular buccal bifurcation cyst is an important entity in pediatric patients but
may be less likely to be recognized by clinicians not regularly treating children.
The results of this study are mostly consistent with the literature. Treatment is
typically via enucleation or even more conservative modalities, and extraction should
be avoided if possible.
Practical Implications
Buccal bifurcation cysts should be treated via enucleation or even more conservative
methods. If possible, the affected teeth should be preserved.
