Periapical Radiograph
Pronunciation: peh-ree-AY-pih-kul RAY-dee-oh-graf
An intraoral dental radiograph that captures the entire tooth including the root apex and surrounding periapical bone.
Full Definition
A periapical radiograph is a standard intraoral dental imaging technique used to visualise the full length of one or more teeth, including the root(s), periodontal ligament space, and surrounding alveolar bone to a point beyond the root apex. In clinical research, periapical radiographs are used to measure radiographic bone levels, assess periapical pathology, monitor endodontic outcomes, and evaluate implant placement. Editors should verify that descriptions of periapical radiography specify whether standardized (paralleling) or bisecting-angle techniques were used, as this affects measurement reproducibility. The periapical radiograph is distinct from the bitewing, which does not capture root apices.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the projection technique (paralleling or bisecting-angle) when describing periapical radiographs in a methods section, as this affects reproducibility claims.
In Context
- "Standardized periapical radiographs were obtained using a paralleling technique and a film-holding device at baseline and 12 months." — Endodontic RCT imaging protocol
- "Periapical radiographs revealed a well-defined radiolucency at the apex of the mandibular left first molar." — Case report radiology findings