What term describes images on dental radiographs that appear dark?

The term used to describe images on dental radiographs that appear dark is "radiolucent." Radiolucent areas indicate that more radiation has passed through the substances in question, allowing more of the x-rays to reach the film or digital sensor. This typically occurs with less dense structures, such as soft tissues or decay in teeth, which do not absorb x-rays as effectively.

In the context of dental radiographs, radiographs that show dark areas usually represent cavities, pulp chambers, or other less dense materials in the mouth. Understanding what radiolucent means is crucial for interpreting dental images correctly, as it helps dental professionals identify issues like dental caries or periapical infections.

In contrast, terms like radiopaque refer to areas that appear light or white on a radiograph, indicating denser structures that absorb more radiation, such as enamel or bone. Radioresistant and radiosensitive relate to the response of living tissues to radiation rather than the appearance of images on radiographs.