What does the term "radiolucent" refer to in dental imaging?

The term "radiolucent" in dental imaging refers to materials or areas that allow X-rays to pass through more easily than surrounding structures. This results in those areas appearing dark on a radiograph. Radiolucent tissues or materials, such as dental pulp or some types of cavities, absorb fewer X-rays compared to denser materials like enamel or bone, which appear light or white on the image. Understanding this term is crucial in interpreting radiographs for diagnosis, as recognizing what appears dark on an image can help identify areas of decay, infection, or other dental issues.