INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) Practice Exam

Which odontogenic oral cyst is the most common?

1. Dentigerous cyst

2. Odontogenic keratocyst

3. Nasopalatine duct cyst

4. Radicular cyst

The correct answer is: Nasopalatine duct cyst

The most common odontogenic oral cyst is the nasopalatine duct cyst. This cyst typically develops from remnants of the nasopalatine duct, which is a structure in the midline of the palate. Nasopalatine duct cysts are often asymptomatic and are frequently discovered during routine radiographic examinations. They are usually located in the maxillary anterior region and are more common in men than in women. Option A, dentigerous cyst, is the second most common odontogenic cyst and is associated with the crown of an unerupted or impacted tooth. Option B, odontogenic keratocyst, is a less common but aggressive odontogenic cyst that has a higher rate of recurrence. Option D, radicular cyst, is the most common inflammatory odontogenic cyst and typically occurs at the apex of a non-vital tooth.