Definition: Increased width of periodontal ligament space due to inflammation. The normal width of a periodontal ligament space should be 0.5 mm or less.
Radiographic Features:
Location: Associated with a tooth.
Edge: Well-defined.
Shape: Periodontal ligament space still maintains shape of root or roots, but is increased in size (more than 0.5 mm).
Internal: Radiolucent.
Other: None.
Number: May be single or multiple.
(click image to enlarge)
Widened periodontal ligament space
(Left – with circle noting larger size but still same shape as root) (Right – without circle)
