What is necessary to reduce recurrence risk for a periapical cyst?

• A. Radiation therapy
• B. Removal of cyst lining (cystectomy)
• C. Antibiotics only
• D. Watchful waiting

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that recurrence happens if any epithelial lining of the cyst remains. The periapical cyst is lined by epithelium that can continue to proliferate and reform the lesion if not fully removed. Therefore, the only way to reliably reduce recurrence risk is to remove the cyst lining through enucleation (cystectomy). Antibiotics address infection but don’t eliminate the cyst tissue; drainage or observation won’t remove the lining, and radiation therapy isn’t used for dental cysts. Removing the cyst lining eliminates the source of ongoing cyst formation, which is why it’s the best answer.