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Endodontics · single question

For that same tooth — percussion tenderness with no radiographic evidence of abscess — what is the PERIAPICAL diagnosis?

  1. Symptomatic apical periodontitis
  2. Acute apical abscess
  3. Chronic apical abscess
  4. Asymptomatic apical periodontitis
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Correct answer: A. Symptomatic apical periodontitis

  • A. Correct. Symptomatic apical periodontitis is inflammation of the apical periodontium producing pain on biting or percussion. Radiographic change may be absent or limited to widening of the PDL space.
  • B. Incorrect. An acute apical abscess features rapid onset, swelling and often systemic signs such as malaise and fever.
  • C. Incorrect. A chronic apical abscess is characterised by gradual onset with intermittent drainage through a sinus tract.
  • D. Incorrect. Asymptomatic apical periodontitis shows a periapical radiolucency WITHOUT symptoms.

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