skip to main content

Periodontal abscess — NDEB AFK MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardPeriodonticsPeriodontal abscessNDEB AFK

A 48-year-old with known periodontitis has acute pain and swelling beside tooth 4.6. The tooth is vital, has a 9 mm pocket with suppuration, and the periapical radiograph shows angular bone loss without caries. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Periodontal abscess

Vitality, suppuration from a deep periodontal pocket, and angular bone loss support a periodontal abscess. An acute apical abscess usually involves a necrotic pulp or endodontic origin. The pearl is that vitality testing is essential when distinguishing periodontal and endodontic sources of swelling.

Reference: AAP/EFP periodontal classification; NDEB KSAs 2024