Condensing (sclerosing) osteitis is most commonly associated with:

Correct answer: B. Chronic pulp irritation

• A. Acute pulpitis is a more sudden, intense inflammatory process and not the classic chronic stimulus associated with condensing osteitis.
• B. Correct. Condensing (sclerosing) osteitis is a localized radiopaque reaction of bone to chronic, low-grade pulpal inflammation/irritation, typically seen at the apex of a tooth with longstanding pulpitis.
• C. A periapical cyst presents as a radiolucent (not radiopaque/sclerotic) lesion.
• D. A periodontal abscess relates to periodontal (not pulpal) pathology and presents differently radiographically.