Question

After endodontic therapy is completed on a tooth with periapical rarefaction, marked reduction in the size of the rarefaction should be evident in about

A. 5-6 days.
B. 2-4 weeks.
C. 6-8 weeks.
D. 2-4 months.
E. 6-12 months.
F. 3-5 years.

Answer 1

A marked reduction in periapical rarefaction size after endodontic therapy is generally evident between 6 to 12 months, as significant bone regeneration occurs during this period.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer to when a marked reduction in the size of periapical rarefaction is expected after endodontic therapy is completed is E. 6-12 months.

Once endodontic therapy, also known as root canal treatment, has been performed on a tooth, the body initiates a healing process to resolve the inflammation and infection at the apex of the root. This involves the resorption of inflammation by-products and the regeneration of bone in the area of the rarefaction. The process is not instantaneous; it takes time for the bone to regenerate and the radiographic evidence of healing to be visible. Typically, a significant reduction in the size of periapical rarefaction on radiographs may take 6 to 12 months. Healing can continue for several years, but the most noticeable changes are usually seen within the first year after treatment.

In the context of the provided information, that tooth decay, if untreated, can progress to the pulp and lead to abscesses, endodontic therapy becomes crucial to prevent such outcomes and facilitate the healing of periapical tissues.