1. Dr MUMENA C.H

2. * One of the most common disease seen in
radiographs
* Rec pathogenesis
* Radiographs are used to detect lesions that are not
easily observed in the clinical examination
* Carious lesion appears radiolucent in the
radiographs
* Carious lesions are usually larger than their
radiographic appearance
* Reason: For density changes to be observed
radiographically, 30-50% demineralization must
have occurred

3. * Proximal caries:
* Occur on proximal surfaces
* Detection: Bitewing radiographs
* Radiographic appearance:
* Notching of the enamel usually in area of 1-2 mm
apical to the contact point.
* Forms a traingular pattern to the dentinoenamel
junction (rec pathogenesis) into dentin
* Spread out in dentin, undermining enamel
* Becomes more diffuse in radiographic appearance as
they advance into dentin

4. * Occlusal caries:
* Occur on occlusal surface of premolars and
molars
* Detection: Clinical examination more reliable
* Reason: radiographic superimposition of normal
structures, hard to detect early lesions
* Use of radiographs: when occlusal caries have
extended into dentin

5. * Occlusal caries cont…
* Radiographic appearance:
* First thin radiolucent line between the enamel and
dentin
* More diffuse radiographically when in dentin
* Thin radiopaque band of secondary dentin between
dentin and pulp chamber in advanced lesions

6. * Buccal and lingual caries:
* Detection is best with clinical examination
* Reasons: superimposition of structures
* Radiographic presentation:
* Difficulty to distinguish buccal, lingual and occlusal
caries radiographically
* Buccal and lingual caries have a well defined
radiopaque band that can not be found in occlusal
caries

7. * Root surface caries:
* Occur on surface where attachment has migrated
apically (Gingival recession)
* Detection: Careful clinical examination,
radiographs
* Radiographic appearance:
* No particular pattern
* Diffuse scooping out of the tooth structure
* N.B root surface caries cannot occur where there is
gingival attachment: evaluate bone level

8. * Recurrent caries:
* Occur at the margin of the existing restorations
* Detection: radiographic for occlusal and
proximal restorations, large restorations may
obscure early recurrent lesions
* Radiographic presentation:
* Radiolucency at the margin of existing restorations
* Similar in appearance to primary carious lesions

9. * Appreciate radiographic appearance of
restorations such as:
* Amalgam
* Gold and other metals
* Pins
* Calcium hydroxide base
* Gutta percha
* Composite e.t.c
* N.B: Distinguish them from the discussed
appearences

10. * After completion of this part: Follow
radiographic presentation of periodontal
diseases in part 3