Perspective - Journal of Oral Medicine and Surgery (2025) Volume 8, Issue 1

Three-Dimensional Imaging in the Diagnosis and Management of Jaw Cysts and Tumors

Article type: Perspective

Home Page URL:  https://www.alliedacademies.org/trauma-and-critical-care/

Journal short name: J Oral Med Surg

Volume: 8

Issue: 1

PDF No: 187

Citation: Harris M J. Three-Dimensional Imaging in the Diagnosis and Management of Jaw Cysts and Tumors. J Oral Med Surg. 2025; 8(1):187

^*Correspondence to: Michael J. Harris. Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, USA. Email: michael.j.harris@email.com

Received: 27-May-2025, Manuscript No. AAOMT-25-169575; Editor assigned: 01-Jun-2025, PreQC No. AAOMT-25-169575 (PQ); Reviewed: 15- Jun-2025, QC No. AAOMT-25-169575; Revised: 22- Jun-2025, Manuscript No. AAOMT-25-169575 (R); Published: 29- Jun-2025, DOI:10.35841/AAOMT-8.1.187

Three-Dimensional Imaging in the Diagnosis and Management of Jaw Cysts and Tumors

Michael J. Harris *

Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, USA

Introduction

The accurate diagnosis and effective management of jaw cysts and tumors remain essential components of oral and maxillofacial surgery. These lesions, ranging from benign odontogenic cysts to aggressive neoplastic growths, can cause significant functional and aesthetic complications if left untreated. Traditionally, two-dimensional imaging modalities such as panoramic radiography have been used for preliminary assessment. However, these methods often present limitations, including distortion, overlapping anatomical structures, and difficulty in accurately determining lesion extent and relation to adjacent vital structures [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].

Three-dimensional (3D) imaging technologies, such as cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and conventional computed tomography (CT), have revolutionized maxillofacial diagnostics by providing volumetric data and multiplanar reconstructions. These modalities offer unparalleled visualization of lesion borders, cortical bone involvement, and internal architecture, enabling precise preoperative planning and improved surgical outcomes. Furthermore, 3D imaging facilitates better communication between clinicians and patients, as volumetric renderings can illustrate disease severity and expected surgical interventions. The integration of 3D imaging into clinical practice has therefore significantly enhanced both diagnostic accuracy and treatment predictability for jaw cysts and tumors.

Conclusion

Three-dimensional imaging has become an indispensable tool in modern oral and maxillofacial diagnostics, bridging the gap between clinical examination and definitive surgical planning. By offering detailed spatial information and minimizing diagnostic uncertainty, CBCT and CT imaging contribute to more conservative and targeted surgical approaches, reduced morbidity, and improved patient satisfaction. As technology advances, the role of 3D imaging will likely expand further, incorporating artificial intelligence–assisted interpretation and real-time surgical navigation to enhance precision in managing jaw cysts and tumors.

References

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3. Kamburo?lu, K., & Kursun, S. (2010). A comparison of the diagnostic accuracy of CBCT and conventional panoramic radiography in the detection of simulated jaw cysts. Dentomaxillofacial Radiology, 39(8), 467–475.
4. MacDonald-Jankowski, D. S. (2010). Keratocystic odontogenic tumour: Systematic review. Dentomaxillofacial Radiology, 39(8), 455–467.
5. Scarfe, W. C., & Farman, A. G. (2008). What is cone-beam CT and how does it work? Dental Clinics of North America, 52(4), 707–730.