Question

Describe in a clear and simple way, in 10 own formulated sentences, how an untreated enamel caries attack can gradually and chronologically lead to the tooth developing a radicular cyst. Each sentence should contain an essential and correct step in the process.

Answer 1

Answer: Untreated enamel caries attack can gradually and chronologically lead to the tooth developing a radicular cyst in the following steps

1. Dental caries occur when decay causing bacteria make acids in the mouth which attack the enamel or tooth surface
2. Pulpal necrosis or death of dental pulp occurs subsequently, thus forming necrotic debris which stimulate inflammation. As a result periapical inflammation occurs
3. Then, periapical granuloma is formed which is composed of granulation tissue, inflammatory cells and scar
4. This further provides rich vascular area to the epithelial rests of mallasez cells (part of peroiodontal ligament cells around a tooth)
5. Due to rich vascular supply, the epithelial rests of mallasez cells proliferate
6. The proliferation of these cells form large mass of cells
7. Thus, the inner cells of the mass remain nourishment deprived
8. The nourishment deprived cells undergo liquefaction necrosis meaning, the mass of cells or tissue is transformed into a liquid viscous mass
9. As a result, a cavity is formed at the centre of the granuloma
10. Persistent and chronic infection results in the formation of radicular or periapical cyst, which are typically pear shaped or round and unilocular with a lesion in the periapical region