Endo-Periodontal Lesions Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards defining key concepts, pathways, disease patterns, and classification grades for endo-periodontal lesions based on the lecture material.

Endo-Periodontal Lesion (EPL)

A pathological communication between the pulpal and periodontal tissues of the same tooth.

Acute EPL

An endo-periodontal lesion where the patient is symptomatic, experiencing pain, tenderness, or discomfort when biting.

Chronic EPL

An endo-periodontal lesion that is relatively quiet and typically detected during routine examination or on a radiograph.

Apical Foramen

The main opening located at the root apex that serves as a natural communication pathway between the pulp and periodontium.

Accessory and Lateral Canals

Small channels connecting the root canal system directly to the external root surface.

Dentinal Tubules

Microscopic structures that can become communication pathways between the pulp and periodontium when overlying cementum is lost or damaged.

Fracture Lines

Cracks in the tooth structure that can physically connect the root canal to the periodontal tissues.

Iatrogenic Pathways

Artificial communications created between pulpal and periodontal tissues due to treatment-related damage, such as perforations or post preparation.

Endodontic to Periodontal Spread

A pattern of disease spread where pulpal infection drains through the apex or accessory canals to create a narrow, deep periodontal tract, typically associated with a non-vital tooth.

Periodontal to Endodontic Spread

A pattern of disease spread where advanced periodontal destruction reaches lateral canals, the furcation, or root apex and later affects the pulp, often presenting with a wider periodontal pocket.

Combined Lesion

A condition in which endodontic and periodontal disease develop independently and eventually meet around the same tooth.

Grade 1 EPL

An endo-periodontal lesion in a tooth without root damage characterized by a narrow, deep periodontal pocket on one tooth surface.

Grade 2 EPL

An endo-periodontal lesion in a tooth without root damage characterized by a wide, deep periodontal pocket on one tooth surface.

Grade 3 EPL

An endo-periodontal lesion in a tooth without root damage characterized by deep periodontal pockets present on more than one tooth surface.

External Root Resorption

Pathological loss of outer root structure, often associated with trauma, that can create a direct communication with the periodontium.

Root Damage EPL

A classification category of EPL involving root fracture/crack, perforation, or external root resorption, which generally carries a poor or hopeless prognosis.

Primary Clinical Signs of EPL

A deep periodontal pocket reaching or approaching the root apex along with a negative or altered response to pulp vitality or sensibility testing.