Dental Terms

Dental Patient Education Resources

Periradicular

Periradicular Edmonton

Periapical periodontitis, also known as apical periodontitis or periradicular periodontitis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the tip of a tooth root, called the apex. This condition can be acute or chronic and usually occurs when bacteria invade the pulp inside a tooth. The term ?periapical? means ?around the apex,? while ?-itis? indicates inflammation.

Causes of Periradicular Periodontitis

Periapical periodontitis often develops as a result of untreated dental problems, such as:

Dental caries (tooth decay): Deep cavities can allow bacteria to reach the pulp.
Irreversible pulpitis: Severe inflammation of the tooth pulp can progress to infection at the root tip.
Pulpal necrosis: Dead tissue in the tooth can trigger periapical inflammation.

Other factors can also contribute, including:

High spots in a dental restoration that put pressure on the tooth
Extrusion of root filling materials during endodontic treatment
Bacterial infection originating from the gums rather than the pulp

Possible Complications

If left untreated, periapical periodontitis can lead to more serious conditions, such as:

Periapical abscess: A collection of pus at the root tip caused by the spread of infection.
Periapical cyst: A fluid-filled sac lined with tissue that forms around the root tip.

Treatment and Care

Treatment depends on the severity and cause of the condition. Options may include root canal therapy to remove infected tissue, drainage of an abscess, or other procedures recommended by your dentist. Early intervention can prevent further complications and preserve your tooth.

Contact for Periradicular Care

If you suspect you have periapical periodontitis or have been diagnosed with it, it is important to seek professional dental care promptly. Call to schedule an appointment with at . Our office is conveniently located at , , , , , and our team is ready to provide expert care to protect your oral health and comfort.

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