Epidermoid cysts are commonly found throughout the body. In the oral regions, they usually appear in the floor of the mouth. As they grow, they may displace the tongue upward causing various speaking and eating difficulties. Therefore, adequate treatment of the cysts should be done immediately.
We found an epidermoid cyst in the floor of the mouth of a 9-year-old boy by school dental examination. The patient became aware of his sublingual swelling about six months prior to the examination. Although his teacher pointed out his unclear pronunciation, the patient evaded to mention the swelling. We removed the cyst under general anesthesia. In this way, we quickly remedied the patient's speaking and eating problems.
By this experience it was strongly suggested that not only school dentists, but also all dentists should always examine whole oral cavity precisely as well as the teeth.
