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Apical Periodontitis

Inflammation of periradicular tissues secondary to pulpal pathology.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department. Book Appointment →

What is Apical Periodontitis?

Apical periodontitis is inflammation of the periradicular tissues at the root apex, almost always resulting from pulp necrosis with bacterial colonization of the root canal system. It manifests as acute (symptomatic) or chronic (asymptomatic) forms with characteristic radiographic findings.

Acute apical periodontitis presents with severe pain, percussion sensitivity and tooth mobility. Chronic apical periodontitis is often asymptomatic with periapical radiolucency representing granuloma, cyst or abscess. Endodontic treatment to eliminate intracanal infection is the standard of care; persistent or large lesions may require apical surgery.

Symptoms

Severe pain on biting or percussion (acute)
Spontaneous throbbing pain (acute)
Tooth feels elevated in socket
Tooth mobility on examination
Asymptomatic periapical radiolucency (chronic)
Sinus tract drainage at gingiva (chronic abscess)
Tenderness on palpation of overlying mucosa

Risk Factors

Untreated pulpitis and pulp necrosis
Trauma with neurovascular disruption
Inadequate previous root canal treatment
Coronal microleakage around restorations
Cracked tooth and vertical root fracture
Periodontal disease with retrograde infection
Diabetes mellitus and immunosuppression

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent tooth pain on biting
  • Tenderness over the apex of a tooth
  • Detected periapical radiolucency on routine radiograph
  • Recurrent or non-healing dental abscess
  • Sinus tract drainage from gingiva
  • Failure of previous endodontic therapy

Treatment Methods

01
Comprehensive history, clinical and radiographic examination
02
Cone beam CT for complex anatomy and lesion characterization
03
Root canal treatment with thorough mechanical and chemical debridement
04
Calcium hydroxide intracanal medication for persistent infection
05
Three-dimensional obturation of root canal system
06
Coronal seal with permanent restoration
07
Apical surgery (apicoectomy) for persistent lesions or extruded materials
08
Tooth extraction for non-restorable teeth or vertical root fracture
09
Postoperative follow-up with radiographs at 6 and 12 months

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı Department

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Diş çürüğü, ağız bakterilerinin şekeri fermente ederek ürettiği asitlerin diş minesi, dentin ve pulpayı tahrip etmesiyle oluşan kronik bir hastalıktır.

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Impacted Tooth

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An impacted tooth — most often a wisdom tooth — has not erupted fully and remains in the jaw bone or gum. It can lead to pericoronitis, caries and cysts.

Dental Implants

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A dental implant is a titanium screw placed in the jawbone that supports a crown, bridge or denture, providing the closest possible function and aesthetics to a natural tooth.

Teeth Whitening

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Teeth whitening lightens tooth color using hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gels. In-office (professional) bleaching uses higher concentrations with light activation for faster results; home bleaching uses custom trays with lower concentrations over 1–4 weeks. Safety depends on healthy teeth, correct concentration, isolation of gums and transient sensitivity management.

Orthodontics

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Orthodontics is the dental specialty that corrects the alignment of the teeth and jaws, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits at any age, from childhood through adulthood.

Gingival Recession (Gum Recession)

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Gingival recession is the apical displacement of the gingival margin with exposure of the root surface. It may be localized or generalized and results from mechanical trauma, periodontal disease, thin biotype or anatomic factors. Recession can cause root sensitivity, caries and aesthetic concerns; management includes cause elimination and surgical root coverage when indicated.

Bad Breath (Halitosis)

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Halitosis is a chronic problem that affects a substantial part of the population. It is most often of oral origin and can interfere with social interactions.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.