The spelling of "apical space" is phonetically represented as /ˈeɪpɪkəl speɪs/. The first syllable is pronounced as "ay" with a long "a" sound, followed by "pi" pronounced as "pick", and "cal" pronounced like "call". The stress is on the first syllable, making it distinct from other words like "optical". The second word "space" is pronounced as it looks, with the "s" sound and the "a" sound, ending with the "s" sound. The apical space is an important term in endodontics, referring to the space at the tip of a tooth's roots.
The term "apical space" refers to a specific anatomical region or a free space located at the apex, or tip, of a structure, usually referring to a tooth or root. In dental terminology, the apical space is the area at the very end of the root, where the apex resides. It is a small cavity that contains various structures and can have important clinical significance.
Within the apical space, there are important anatomical features and structures that play a crucial role in dental health. These may include the apical foramen, which is the natural opening at the tip of the root through which blood vessels and nerves enter and exit; the periodontal ligament, a connective tissue that attaches the tooth to the surrounding bone; and the root canal, which is the hollow cavity inside the tooth root that contains pulp tissue.
Clinically, the apical space is of particular interest during dental procedures such as root canal treatment or endodontic therapy. Dentists and endodontists must carefully clean and shape this space to remove infected pulp tissue, bacteria, and debris to effectively eliminate tooth infection and maintain the health of the tooth.
Understanding the apical space and its structures is crucial for dental professionals in diagnosing and treating various dental conditions, ensuring successful treatment outcomes, and preserving the overall oral health of their patients.
The space between the alveolar wall and the apex of the root of a tooth. where an alveolar abscess usually has its origin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The etymology of the word "apical space" can be broken down as follows:
1. Apical: The word "apical" comes from the Latin word "apicem", meaning "the tip or summit". It is derived from the Latin noun "apis", which means "bee". The idea behind this word is that bees have a stinger or a "tip" that they use to defend themselves.
2. Space: The word "space" originates from the Old French word "espace", which evolved from the Latin word "spatium", meaning "room" or "area". This Latin word can be traced back further to the Proto-Indo-European root "*spei-" meaning "to flourish" or "extend".
Therefore, when combined, "apical space" refers to the area or region around the tip or summit of something.