Radiolucent Mandibular Lesion with Cortical Plate Loss on Evaluation of Buccal Swelling

A 51-year-old female with no significant medical history was referred for evaluation of the #30/31 region due to asymptomatic buccal swelling, with the referring doctor suspecting a possible root fracture. During review, the radiologist identified a radiolucent lesion in the right mandible resulting in significant loss of the buccal cortical plate, with no evidence of root fracture or inflammatory apical pathosis in the regional teeth. The radiographic features were most suggestive of a benign cyst or tumor, and biopsy was recommended for definitive diagnosis. The radiologist noted that the presentation appeared somewhat aggressive given the extent of cortical plate loss, a suspected adjacent soft tissue mass, and associated root resorption.