Jaw Cyst and Tumour Treatment

What Is a Jaw Cyst?

A jaw cyst is a cavity that develops inside the jawbone and is filled with fluid or soft tissue. It is often related to the root of a tooth or to an impacted tooth. Cysts usually grow slowly and may go unnoticed for a long time without any symptoms, being found by chance on a routine dental X-ray.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Often there are no symptoms and the cyst is found on an X-ray
• There may be slowly growing swelling in the jaw or palate
• Teeth may shift or become loose
• Pain and swelling may appear if the cyst becomes inflamed
• Rarely, numbness may be felt in the lip or chin

If you notice a sore, swelling or change of colour in your mouth that has not healed within two or three weeks, we recommend having it examined without delay.

Jaw Tumours

Most tumours found in the jawbone are benign. Even so, an accurate diagnosis of every lesion is important so that treatment can be planned accordingly. This is why every tissue removed is sent for pathological examination and a follow-up plan is made based on the result.

Diagnosis

A panoramic X-ray and, when needed, a 3D CT scan are used for diagnosis. They show the borders of the lesion and its relation to structures such as nerves, the sinus and tooth roots clearly. When needed, a small piece of tissue is taken for a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

The Treatment Process

Treatment usually involves removing the lesion completely by surgery. Depending on the size of the lesion, the procedure is carried out under local or general anaesthesia. For very large cysts, the cyst may first be reduced in size and then removed. The tooth related to the cyst may need root canal treatment or extraction. After the cyst is removed, the remaining cavity is filled with a bone graft when needed.

Cyst and tumour surgery falls within oral and maxillofacial surgery. At our practice, these procedures are planned and carried out personally by Dr. Seçil D. Sümengen Yazıcı, a specialist in this field.

Healing and Follow-up

There may be swelling and sensitivity for a few days after the procedure, and these are controlled with the medication provided and cold compresses. It takes time for the bone to fill the cavity. During this time and afterwards, X-rays are taken at intervals to follow healing and check for any recurrence.

• For the first 24 hours, avoid hot food and drinks, smoking and using a straw.
• Apply cold compresses to the outside of your face at intervals for the first 48 hours.
• Choose soft, lukewarm foods for a few days.
• Take the medication provided regularly and do not miss your follow-up X-rays.

Content: Dr. Seçil D. Sümengen Yazıcı, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon · Last updated: 29 September 2026