Which radiographic feature is most directly associated with active periodontal bone loss?

Which radiographic feature is most directly associated with active periodontal bone loss?

• A. Disruption of the lamina dura around affected teeth
• B. Widening of the PDL space only
• C. Increased enamel density
• D. Root resorption

Answer: (A)

Disruption of the lamina dura around affected teeth reflects active periodontal bone loss. The lamina dura is the thin radiopaque lining that surrounds the tooth socket; when inflammation drives bone destruction, this border becomes irregular or interrupted where bone is resorbed. This direct alteration in the boneSupporting border is a clearer marker of ongoing bone loss than changes like widening of the PDL space, which can occur for other reasons and is less specific. Increased enamel density isn’t related to periodontal destruction, and root resorption can occur for various causes and isn’t a specific sign of active periodontal bone loss.

Disruption of the lamina dura around affected teeth reflects active periodontal bone loss. The lamina dura is the thin radiopaque lining that surrounds the tooth socket; when inflammation drives bone destruction, this border becomes irregular or interrupted where bone is resorbed. This direct alteration in the boneSupporting border is a clearer marker of ongoing bone loss than changes like widening of the PDL space, which can occur for other reasons and is less specific. Increased enamel density isn’t related to periodontal destruction, and root resorption can occur for various causes and isn’t a specific sign of active periodontal bone loss.