Jaw cysts
A jaw cyst is often found by chance on an X-ray taken for something else. Most are harmless and slow-growing, but they usually need treatment because they keep enlarging. These are the questions we are asked most often.
Looking for an overview, fees and locations? See our Oral Pathology & Biopsy page.
About jaw cysts
What is a jaw cyst?
A cyst is a fluid-filled sac within the bone. Most jaw cysts come from the tissues that form teeth. They grow slowly, often without symptoms, and show up as a dark area on an X-ray.
What are the common types?
| Type | What it is |
|---|---|
| Radicular cyst | The most common type. It forms at the root tip of a tooth whose nerve has died. |
| Dentigerous cyst | Forms around the crown of a tooth that has not come through, often a wisdom tooth or canine. |
| Odontogenic keratocyst | Less common. It can grow along the jaw and is more likely to come back, so it needs longer follow-up. |
Is it cancer?
Almost all jaw cysts are benign. A few dark areas on an X-ray turn out to be tumours, most of which are also benign. Removing the cyst and sending it to a pathologist gives a definite diagnosis.
My X-ray shows a dark area but nothing hurts. Does it need treatment?
Not always. Some dark areas are normal variations or harmless conditions that are best left alone, such as a small hollow in the jaw caused by a salivary gland, or a condition that affects the bone around healthy lower front teeth. Others are cysts that will keep growing. We will compare your X-rays and tell you whether it needs treatment or can be watched.
Which symptoms need prompt attention?
- Swelling of the jaw or gum
- Numbness of the lip or chin
- Teeth becoming loose or moving
- Pain, discharge or a bad taste
Treatment
How is a cyst treated?
Most cysts are removed completely through the mouth (enucleation) and sent to the laboratory. If a tooth is causing the cyst, it may be treated or removed at the same time. Most jaw cysts are removed under general anaesthetic as day surgery; some small cysts can be treated under local anaesthetic in our rooms.
What if the cyst is large?
A large cyst near the nerve or developing teeth can first be opened and drained through a small window (decompression). Over several months it shrinks, and a smaller second procedure removes what is left. This can protect the nerve and sometimes save teeth.
Will it come back?
Most cysts do not come back once removed. Keratocysts are the exception, so we use additional treatment at surgery and check them with X-rays for several years.
What is recovery like?
Most people have some swelling and discomfort for a few days. We review you after surgery and take follow-up X-rays until the bone has filled in. See our post-operative instructions.
Our results
In our audit of biopsies from September 2023 to October 2026, 8 jaw cysts were confirmed by the pathologist, in people aged 22 to 57. Six were dentigerous cysts, most of them around a lower wisdom tooth, and none were keratocysts or tumours. All were removed under day surgery or as an inpatient. These figures will be updated as the remaining pathology reports are reviewed.
Fees
| Fee | Typical amount |
|---|---|
| Cyst removal (Medicare item 30075) | $475, with a Medicare rebate of $152 |
| Bone graft, where needed (Medicare item 45841) | Depends on the size of the defect; Medicare rebate $435 |
| Anaesthetist (general anaesthetic only) | $500–$900 |
| Hospital (general anaesthetic only) | $1,350–$2,650 |
Medicare rebates apply to cyst removal and bone grafting. The pathology laboratory bills separately. You will receive a written estimate after your consultation.
- Zip Money: 6 months interest free
- No charge for aftercare and post-operative reviews
Getting started
Do I need a referral?
Yes. Ask your dentist (or your GP) for a referral to Dr Tom Jaunay. If you already have a referral, call us and we will book you in.
What should I bring to my consultation?
- Your referral, and the X-ray or CBCT scan that showed the cyst, plus any earlier X-rays
- Any symptoms and how long you have had them
- A list of your medicines, especially blood thinners, bone-strengthening medicines (such as Prolia or bisphosphonates), and any history of head and neck radiotherapy
How do I contact you?
Call 02 8513 9810 (9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday) or email reception@oromaxnsw.com.au. Sydney CBD Level 2, 225 Macquarie St · Hurstville Suite 9.06, Level 9, 288 Forest Rd · Miranda Suite 2, Level 5, 86 Kiora Rd. See our locations.
References
- Jones AV, Craig GT, Franklin CD. Range and demographics of odontogenic cysts diagnosed in a UK population over a 30-year period. J Oral Pathol Med. 2006. doi:10.1111/j.1600-0714.2006.00455.x
- Blanas N, et al. Systematic review of the treatment and prognosis of the odontogenic keratocyst. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod. 2000. PubMed
This page is general information to help you prepare for your consultation. It does not replace an assessment and advice about your own situation.