Tooth root abscess

Diagnostic Evaluation

Tooth root abscess is an infection at the tooth apex causing local bone lysis and draining tracts. Clinical signs include facial swelling, halitosis, suppuration, and tenderness. Imaging is used to confirm origin and determine bone involvement. Dental radiographs help detect periapical changes, while CT best defines extent in complex cases. Ultrasound is adjunctive, MRI for soft-tissue spread, nuclear for rare systemic assessment.