A dental cyst might not always cause pain, but leaving it untreated can lead to serious problems. Unlike a dental abscess (which is painful and infected), cysts grow slowly and often go unnoticed, until they damage your teeth or jawbone. If you’ve noticed a painless lump in your mouth or had an X-ray that revealed a cyst, this guide will explain:
What Is a Dental Cyst?
A dental cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms near teeth, usually due to infection, a dead tooth, or an impacted wisdom tooth. The most common types are:
- Periapical cyst – Forms at the root of a dead or infected tooth.
- Dentigerous cyst – Develops around an unerupted tooth (like wisdom teeth).
Unlike an abscess (which is filled with pus and causes severe pain), a cyst grows slowly and may not hurt at first. However, if left untreated, it can weaken your jawbone or damage nearby teeth.
Dental Cyst vs Abscess: Key Differences
Many people confuse cysts with abscesses, but they are not the same:
| Feature | Dental Cyst | Dental Abscess |
|---|---|---|
| Pain Level | Usually painless (unless infected) | Extremely painful |
| Growth Speed | Slow (months/years) | Fast (days) |
| Cause | Dead tooth, impacted tooth | Bacterial infection |
| Urgency | Needs treatment but not always emergency | Requires immediate care |
If you have sudden, throbbing pain, it’s likely an abscess. If you have a painless lump or swelling, it could be a cyst.
Symptoms of a Dental Cyst
Since cysts grow slowly, you might not notice them right away. Watch for:
✔ A small, painless bump on gums or jaw
✔ Swelling that doesn’t go away
✔ Tooth sensitivity (if the cyst presses on nerves)
✔ Jaw weakness (in rare cases, cysts can fracture bone)
“Many patients only discover a cyst during a routine X-ray,”. “That’s why regular check-ups are crucial.”
Do Dental Cysts Need Emergency Treatment?
Most cysts don’t require emergency care like abscesses do. However, you should see a dentist if:
- The cyst becomes infected (causes pain/swelling).
- It’s growing quickly and affecting nearby teeth.
- You’re preparing for dentures or implants (cysts must be removed first).
Treatment Options in Cardiff
- Surgical Removal – The most common solution (minor procedure under local anesthesia).
- Root Canal – If the cyst is caused by a dead tooth, saving the tooth may be possible.
- Monitoring – Very small cysts may just need regular check-ups.
Can a Dental Cyst Go Away on Its Own?
No—unlike abscesses (which may burst and drain), cysts won’t disappear without treatment. Ignoring them can lead to:
- Bone loss in the jaw
- Tooth displacement
- Infection (if bacteria enter the cyst)
Final Thoughts
A dental cyst might not be as urgent as an abscess, but early treatment prevents complications. If you suspect a cyst, book a check-up at an emergency dentist in Cardiff for an X-ray and expert advice.
🔹 Need Help Now?
If you have unexplained swelling or jaw discomfort, contact Emergency & Walk-In Dentist Cardiff for same-day appointments.
