Advanced
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Periapical pathology
Disease process affecting tissues surrounding the tooth root apex, often requiring surgical intervention.
Full Definition
Periapical pathology encompasses inflammatory and infectious conditions affecting the tissues surrounding the root apex of teeth, including acute and chronic periodontitis, periapical granulomas, cysts, and abscesses. These conditions typically result from pulpal necrosis and bacterial invasion through the root canal system. Surgical treatment may involve apicoectomy, root-end filling, or complete tooth extraction depending on the extent of pathology.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from periodontal pathology which affects tooth-supporting structures rather than root apex.
In Context
- "Extensive periapical pathology required surgical intervention beyond conventional endodontics." — Treatment planning
- "Radiographic evidence of periapical pathology indicated the need for apicoectomy." — Diagnostic report
Also known as
apical periodontitis
root tip infection
Contrasted with
periapical health
normal periapex
Don't confuse with
periodontal disease
pulpal pathology