K04: Diseases of pulp and periapical tissues
K04.4: Acute apical periodontitis of pulpal origin
Every tooth has a hollow interior. Connective tissue such as nerves and blood vessels is found inside a tooth. Through its interior, a tooth is formed and sustained.
Every tooth consists of 3 sections: the crown, the tooth neck (cervix) and the tooth root. The crown is the visible part of the tooth. The tooth neck is covered by the gums. The tooth root keeps the tooth in the jawbone. The tooth is anchored firmly in the jawbone by the periodontal ligament. This ligament includes, among other things, the outermost layer of the tooth root and the gums. The periodontal ligament also includes the hole in the jawbone in which the tooth is located.
In your case, the periodontal ligament has become inflamed at the bottom of the tooth root. Your periodontal ligament has become inflamed, because the inside of the tooth was inflamed. The inflammation has spread from the tooth to the periodontal ligament. The inside of the tooth may for instance become inflamed by pathogens or injuries to the tooth.
If the periodontal ligament is inflamed, the gums may bleed rapidly or appear red, for example.
Patient Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.