An X-ray shows a radiolucency at the apex of teeth #7 and #10, slightly above the apex. All teeth test vital. What is the MOST likely explanation?

Correct answer: A. Normal lateral (incisive) fossa depression of the maxilla

• A. Correct. The lateral (incisive) fossa of the maxilla is a normal anatomical depression on the labial surface between the lateral incisor and canine. On periapical X-ray it projects as a radiolucency at or above the apex of #7/#10 in vital teeth. This is a normal anatomical landmark.
• B. Incorrect. A globulomaxillary cyst (a historically described entity) was said to be between lateral incisor and canine but is a pathologic entity, not a normal anatomic depression.
• C. Incorrect. A periapical granuloma is associated with a NON-vital tooth. These teeth test vital.
• D. Incorrect. A nasopalatine canal cyst is in the midline anterior maxilla — not the lateral incisor/canine region.