Cyst Procedures

Cyst operations are surgical procedures for the removal of diseases that cause substance loss in the jawbones. The procedure aims to support the soft and hard tissues around the teeth. Since the presence of a cyst in the bone can also lead to tooth loss, cyst operations can be planned to prevent this situation.

What is a Jaw Cyst?

Jaw cysts are structures that develop within the jawbones and may contain liquid or semi-liquid substances. In some cases, they may continue to develop without any symptoms or may show symptoms such as pain or fistula depending on the state of infection.

What Are the Causes of Jaw Cysts?

Jaw cysts can occur due to insufficient attention to oral hygiene, dental trauma, the continuous presence of infected teeth or dental tissues, or due to an embryological origin. Cysts are jaw diseases, and early intervention is important as they can sometimes develop rapidly and cause significant tissue destruction.

How Are Jaw Cysts Diagnosed?

Jaw cysts may present symptoms such as swelling and pain inside or outside the mouth, the presence of discharge formations along with protrusions in the gums called fistulas, or redness in the gums. Jaw cysts can be diagnosed in the presence of infected or decayed teeth in the mouth or around impacted teeth, and they may sometimes be detected on X-ray even if there are no noticeable symptoms.

What Are the Effects of Jaw Cysts?

Jaw cysts can spread in the jaw bones, leading to loss of resistance or, in advanced stages, bone fractures; they can also reach the jaw nerves, causing loss of sensation in those areas. They can damage tooth roots, resulting in tooth loss or displacement of teeth. Over time, jaw cysts can decrease the quality of life along with pain. Depending on the location of the cysts, there may be restrictions in mouth opening or spread to areas such as the sinuses or nasal cavity. Although most are benign, considering the risk of transformation into malignant tumors, early diagnosis and planning for surgery in a short time are very important.

How Are Jaw Cyst Surgeries Performed?

First, the presence of the cyst is determined through the examination of radiographic images and intraoral examinations. Prior to the surgical approach, additional treatments such as cyst reduction are planned, taking into account the region and size of the cyst. In some cases, depending on the extent of surrounding tissues, tooth extraction or inclusion of surrounding tissues in the surgery may be considered. Local anesthesia is applied to the area where the cyst is located, as in other surgical approaches. If requested or necessary, the operation can also be planned under sedation or general anesthesia. The cyst is removed from the affected area of the gums and bone, and it is sent to the pathology laboratory to determine the type of cyst. The area is cleaned and closed again, and if necessary, it is adjusted with sterile bone grafts. 

What are Non-Prep Laminates (Prepless Veneers)?

Porcelain veneers are known as prepless laminates or non-prep laminates. They can be applied to healthy tooth tissues without making any changes to the tooth surfaces. These applications cover only the front surface of the teeth and are preferred due to their very natural and aesthetic appearance. They yield excellent results in closing gaps in teeth, correcting color and shape irregularities, and completing smile design. Porcelain veneers are custom-made and can be applied to tooth surfaces using compatible materials without harming the teeth.

Are Non-Prep Laminates and Laminated Veneers Different?

Both applications allow for the placement of aesthetic laminates on the front surface of the teeth, but in the case of prepless veneers, there is no need for any enamel reduction on the teeth before application. Porcelain veneers are applied directly to the tooth surface and can be removed to restore the original appearance if desired. Laminated veneers, on the other hand, require preparation before application, so a small amount of enamel is reduced from the tooth surface before they are applied, and if removed, a new restoration must be made. Since the processing time and sessions are shorter for prepless veneers, smile design can be completed in a shorter time.

How to Perform Non-Prep Laminate Applications?

During the clinical examination, teeth that require application are identified. The oral health and compatibility of surrounding tissues are examined, and digital measurements are taken with three-dimensional scanners. Photos and X-rays are also taken to check all personal parameters such as age, gender, face shape, and skin color, and the most ideal smile design is determined in a computer environment. The simulation of the final appearance is reviewed with the dentists before the application, and the measurements are transferred to the laboratory digitally. In the next session, the veneers are first tried on and then applied to the front surface of the teeth with biocompatible adhesives that do not damage the teeth.

What Should Be Known After the Application of Non-Preparation Veneers?

Thanks to their ease of application and compatible structures, the patient can return to their social life immediately after the procedure. No sensitivity or pain is observed. There is no need to change the usual brushing and flossing routine in oral care. Since the tissue transitions of prepless veneers are very natural and highly compatible with surrounding tissues, oral and dental hygiene can be easily maintained. Regular attendance at check-up appointments and proper care of the restorations increase the lifespan of these prosthetics.