Jaw tumors and cysts

Diagnosis

These tests may be suggested by your doctor to diagnose a jaw tumor or cyst:

• X-ray, Computed Tomography (CT) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are the imaging tests which may be recommended
• Biopsy taken from a portion of the tumor or cyst and sent to the lab for analysis.

The result of these imaging tests can help your doctor decide on which treatment is best for you.

Treatment

The type of lesion you have, the lesion’s stage of growth, and your symptoms will all affect the treatment options for jaw tumors and cysts. When recommending a course of treatment, the doctor also takes into account your specific preferences and treatment goals.

Surgery is typically used to treat cysts and tumors in the jaw. Medical therapy or a surgical and medical therapy combination may be used as treatment in certain circumstances.

Your jaw tumor or cyst is removed during surgery, sometimes along with some neighboring teeth, tissue, and jawbone, and is then sent to the laboratory for further investigation. During the surgery, a pathologist evaluates the extracted tissue and provides a diagnosis so that the surgeon can take quick action.

These other options of treatment may also be applied:

• Jawbone or other structural reconstruction
• Medical treatment for specific jaw cysts and tumors
• Supportive care, such as aid with nutrition, speech and swallowing, and tooth replacements, to help you maintain your quality of life.

It is important of regularly follow up in the long term to be able to provide recurrence and provide treatment immediately if recurrence occurs.