OPG Case 3

Analysis==

  • ==Maxilla (Left Side):==
    • There is a missing tooth 28.
    • Two tooth-like opacities are visible towards the left wall of the maxillary sinus.
    • One opacity is likely the 28, while the smaller one is likely a supernumerary tooth (as supernumerary teeth are generally smaller).
    • ==These teeth are described as ectopic, not displaced, as there is no visible lesion (such as a dentigerous cyst) pushing them.==
  • ==Mandible and Condyles:==
    • ==Asymmetry: There is a vertical dimension asymmetry between the right and left condyles.==
    • ==Right Condyle: Longer and more rounded at the superior aspect (described as “thumb-like”). It is superimposed over the zygomatic process of the temporal bar.==
    • ==Left Condyle: Shorter and flattened/sharp compared to the right side.==
    • ==Left Ramus: The entire ramus is visually shorter than the right side.==
    • ==Antigonial Notch: On the left side, the notch is more curved or “caved in.”==
  • ==Other Structures:==
    • ==Mastoid Process: Contains “soap bubble-like” appearances. These are mastoid air cells, which are normal anatomical structures (similar to ethmoid air cells) and not pathologic.==

Differential Diagnosis

  • ==Unilateral Hypoplasia of the Left Mandible: Suggested by the shortened ramus, flattened condyle, and curved antigonial notch.==
  • ==Childhood Trauma: Likely cause for the unusual condylar morphology. Trauma to the condyle (the growth center) during maturation can result in a structural change where the bone is smaller and flattened rather than showing degenerative changes (like sclerosis or beaking).==
  • ==Ectopic Teeth: Specifically tooth 28 and a supernumerary tooth located in the maxillary sinus area.==

Investigations==

  • ==CBCT or CT: Recommended to further investigate the ectopic teeth in the sinus. This is necessary to rule out the presence of a cyst (like a dentigerous cyst) within the airspace that might be displacing the teeth, which cannot be definitively seen on the OPG.==

Diagnosis==

  • ==Unilateral Mandibular Hypoplasia (Left side): Secondary to blunt childhood trauma.==
  • ==Ectopic Tooth 28 and Ectopic Supernumerary Tooth.==

Management==

  • Referral to medical imaging clinics for advanced imaging (CBCT/CT) to evaluate the maxillary sinus and the position of the ectopic teeth.