Periapical Radiograph
Pronunciation: pehr-ee-AY-pih-kul
An intraoral radiographic image capturing the entire tooth—including crown, root, and surrounding alveolar bone—to the apex and slightly beyond.
Full Definition
A periapical radiograph is an intraoral dental X-ray designed to image the complete anatomy of one to three teeth, from the occlusal or incisal edge through the root apex and into the surrounding periapical bone. It is used to detect periapical pathology, root fractures, root resorption, and bone levels. Editors must distinguish 'periapical radiograph' from 'bitewing radiograph,' which images the crowns and interproximal crestal bone of opposing teeth but not root apices. The term is also commonly abbreviated as 'PA' in clinical notes; on first use in formal documents, it should be expanded.
Usage
Usage note: Expand the abbreviation 'PA' on first use in formal documents. Do not confuse with 'bitewing radiograph,' which does not image root apices. Spell as two words: 'periapical radiograph,' not 'peri-apical.'
In Context
- "A periapical radiograph of tooth #9 revealed a diffuse periapical radiolucency consistent with a chronic abscess." — Radiology Report
- "The editor noted that the author had used 'bitewing' when the clinical context clearly described a periapical radiograph taken to evaluate root length." — Manuscript Copy Edit