A Dentigerous Cyst Associated With a Developing Mandibular Premolar in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report of a Rare Entity

Dentigerous cysts are developmental odontogenic cysts commonly associated with impacted teeth; however, their occurrence in young children involving developing premolars is relatively rare. This report describes the case of an eight-year-old male who presented with pain and swelling in the lower left posterior region of the jaw. Clinical examination revealed a grossly carious primary molar with buccal cortical expansion. Radiographic findings showed a well-defined unilocular radiolucency associated with the crown of the developing mandibular second premolar, causing displacement of the tooth bud. Based on the clinical and radiographic features, a dentigerous cyst of inflammatory origin was diagnosed. The lesion was managed by surgical enucleation, extraction of the affected primary tooth, and removal of the displaced permanent tooth germ. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis. Postoperative healing was uneventful. This report highlights the importance of early diagnosis and timely management of odontogenic cysts in children to prevent complications.