Tooth 3.6 does not respond to cold or electric pulp testing. Over the past day, the patient has developed severe pain and a fluctuant swelling in the buccal vestibule, and the tooth is very tender to percussion. What is the most appropriate periapical diagnosis?
- Correct answer
Acute apical abscess
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Chronic apical abscess
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Asymptomatic apical periodontitis
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Condensing osteitis
This question is one of 15 in AFK practice: Endodontics. Test yourself on all of them.
Practice quiz FlashcardsExplanations
Rapid onset, spontaneous pain, tenderness and swelling from pus in the periradicular tissues define an acute apical abscess. A chronic apical abscess has a gradual onset with little or no discomfort and drains through a sinus tract.
Source: AAE Consensus Conference Recommended Diagnostic Terminology (J Endod 2009) — oneguy
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