Which condition is indicated by periapical radiolucency with pain in a tooth that just underwent root canal treatment?

Periapical radiolucency accompanied by pain after root canal treatment is often an indication of infection or inflammation in the periapical tissues. Following a root canal procedure, the goal is to eliminate the source of infection within the root canal system. However, if the bacteria are not completely eradicated or if there is a response to residual irritants, a localized inflammatory response may occur, leading to the formation of a radiolucent area. This radiolucency indicates a loss of bone density around the apex of the tooth, which is a typical manifestation of apical periodontitis.

Moreover, the presence of pain reinforces the diagnosis of infection or inflammation. It could signal that the dental pulp or periapical tissues have not fully healed following the treatment, or there could be persistent infection that needs further intervention. This condition necessitates careful evaluation and possibly retreatment to address the underlying infection and promote healing.

In contrast, other options like crown fracture, redisplacement of the tooth, and separation of endodontic instruments might not typically present with the same radiographic findings. A crown fracture would usually cause localized pain and might not involve a radiolucent area unless it complicates the root canal case by causing pulp necrosis. Redis