Where does it occur?
In tissue around the root tip.
← All explanationsApical periodontitis
What becomes inflamed around a root tip?
Apical periodontitis is inflammation of the tissue around a tooth’s root tip. It is often associated with infection inside the root canal system. It may hurt when biting or remain unnoticed. It differs from periodontitis that starts at the gum margin.
For dental trainees & teams
AI-generated
Choose a view
Inflammation around the root
Irritants and microbes from the root canal system can reach the tissue around the root tip. The supporting tissues respond with inflammation.
Pain is only one clue
Pressure when chewing may occur, but is not inevitable. X-rays may show changes; early inflammation is not always visible.
Address the cause
The tooth is assessed for restorability and the source of infection. Root canal treatment, retreatment or other measures may be considered, with follow-up to assess healing.
At a glance
What symptoms are possible?
Pain on biting or pressure; sometimes no symptoms.
What is the treatment goal?
Address the cause and retain the tooth where reasonably possible.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
Three steps. Straight to the point.
Explanations are also shown on screen.
Silent film in German · English explanations in the three views above
Often confused
Apical or marginal periodontitis?
Apical means at the root tip; marginal means at the gum margin. Both terms concern supporting tissues, but they do not describe the same cause.
Quick answers
Is this the same as gum inflammation?
No. Gingivitis affects the gums; apical periodontitis affects tissue near the root tip. They can coexist and need different assessment.
Are antibiotics alone enough?
They do not usually eliminate a local source inside the root canal. Antibiotics are only an additional measure in selected circumstances, decided by the clinician.
When is prompt help needed?
Seek prompt dental care for increasing swelling, fever or significant symptoms. Breathing or swallowing difficulties are an emergency: call 112 in Germany.
At the practice
For your consultation
A question to discuss with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:
Is the cause of my symptoms inside the tooth or in its supporting tissues, and which examination helps tell the difference?
Symptoms, examination findings and personal wishes form the basis of individual treatment planning.
Pain when biting deserves assessment of its cause.
Have symptoms assessedChoose an appointment on DoctolibLearning for dental trainees & teamsUnderstand clinical terms and build your knowledge
Build on the simple explanation with clinical terms, key distinctions and a knowledge question.
- Apex
- The tip of a tooth root.
- Periapical
- Located around the root tip.
- Radiolucency
- A darker area on an X-ray; its cause needs interpretation in context.
Know the difference
An X-ray alone cannot reliably show current disease activity or the exact tissue type. Clinical findings and follow-up add information.
Sources and context
Editorial research: 23 October 2026. This explanation covers general principles and does not replace a personal examination. Suitable treatment is discussed following individual assessment.