Periapical Radiograph
Pronunciation: peh-ree-AY-pih-kul RAY-dee-oh-graf
Also written as: PA — Periapical Radiograph
An intraoral radiographic image capturing the full length of one or more teeth, including the root apices and surrounding bone; the primary radiographic tool for periodontal and endodontic assessment.
Full Definition
A periapical radiograph (PA) is a type of intraoral dental radiograph designed to depict the entire tooth from crown to root apex, along with the immediately surrounding alveolar bone and periodontal ligament space. In periodontology, periapical radiographs are used to assess bone levels, detect furcation radiolucencies, identify root morphology, and evaluate the periodontal ligament space. Editors should note that 'periapical' is one unhyphenated word. It should not be confused with 'bitewing radiograph,' which shows bone crestal levels and interproximal anatomy but does not capture apices. The abbreviation 'PA' is acceptable after first definition.
Usage
Usage note: 'Periapical' is one word, no hyphen. 'PA' is an acceptable abbreviated form after first use. Do not substitute 'bitewing' for 'periapical' or vice versa.
In Context
- "Periapical radiographs of the mandibular molar region revealed a 6 mm vertical defect on the mesial root of tooth #19." — Periodontal charting report
- "The methods section specified periapical radiographs taken with a paralleling technique at baseline and 12 months." — Clinical research article