Dentigerous cysts are the most common developmental cysts of the jaws, most frequently associated with impacted mandibular third molar teeth. Dentigerous cysts around supernumerary teeth, however, account for 5% of all dentigerous cysts, with most developing around a mesiodens in the anterior maxilla. This report describes two cases of a dentigerous cyst associated with an impacted mesiodens. Both of the patients complained of swelling in the maxillary anterior region. Radiographic examination revealed an impacted mesiodens surrounded by a large corticated radiolucency in both cases. A provisional diagnosis of infected odontogenic cyst was made. The cysts were enucleated with the removal of the mesiodens in the two cases. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of infected dentigerous cyst associated with an impacted mesiodens in both cases. The patients remained asymptomatic, and no complications were noted.

Presence of supernumerary teeth is well-recognized clinical phenomenon. However, it is uncommon to find multiple supernumeraries in individuals with no other associated disease or syndrome. Presence of multiple supernumerary teeth is thought to have genetic component. We report a rare case where multiple supernumerary teeth were seen without presence of any other syndrome in 3 generations; father, son, and two grandsons. We also present a review of similar cases published in literature till date. The role of genetics in development of supernumerary teeth is highlighted.

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To conclude, digital panoramic radiographs had good sensitivity and high specificity in detecting CCAAP. If properly trained, dentists can detect such plaques and can refer patients to physician for timely medical treatment.

It is difficult to take intraoral radiographs in some patients who are intolerable to place the film in their mouth. For these patients, Newman and Friedman recommended a new technique of extraoral film placement. Here we report various cases that diagnostic imaging was performed in patients using the extraoral periapical technique. This technique was used to obtain the radiographs for the patients with severe gag reflex, pediatric dental patients, and patients with restricted mouth opening. This technique can be recommended as an alternative to conventional intraoral periapical technique in cases where intraoral film placement is difficult to achieve. (Imaging Sci Dent 2011; 41 : 161-5)