Periapical Abscess

Category: science

A collection of pus that has formed at the tip of the tooth root due to a bacterial infection.

This abscess is typically caused by untreated decay or trauma that allows bacteria into the pulp chamber. The infection travels out the tip of the root, causing severe pain, swelling, and potential bone destruction if not drained via root canal or extraction.

Common Examples

• X-ray imaging confirmed a large periapical abscess, which explained the localized swelling and throbbing sensation the patient reported.
• An acute periapical abscess is a medical emergency requiring rapid intervention to prevent the infection from spreading to the facial planes.