Periapical Periodontitis
Pronunciation: peh-ree-AY-pih-kul peh-ree-oh-don-TY-tis
Inflammation of the periapical tissues surrounding the root apex, typically caused by microbial infection of the root canal system.
Full Definition
Periapical periodontitis is a pathological condition characterised by inflammatory changes in the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone at the root apex, most commonly arising from pulp necrosis and subsequent bacterial invasion of the periapical area. It is classified as acute or chronic, with the chronic form often appearing as a periapical radiolucency on radiographs. Editors working on endodontic clinical records must note that this term is distinct from 'marginal periodontitis,' which involves gingival and crestal bone disease. The compound adjective 'periapical' is always written as one word without a hyphen. This condition is a primary indication for root canal treatment.
Usage
Usage note: 'Periapical' should always be written as a single word; hyphenated forms ('peri-apical') are non-standard in contemporary endodontic literature.
In Context
- "The radiograph revealed a well-defined periapical radiolucency consistent with chronic periapical periodontitis." — Radiographic report
- "Acute periapical periodontitis presented with marked percussion sensitivity and localised swelling." — Clinical examination note