Overall Classification:
UNCLASSIFIED//REL TO NATO/ISAF
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Radiopacity – light on film
Radiolucency - dark on film
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Radiopaque: refers to a light area on the film
◦ Structures that are absorbers of x-rays block the xrays from reaching the film
◦ The x-rays are attenuated (decreased in intensity) by
absorbing structures
◦ Fewer radiation reach the film
◦ Dense structures are strong absorbers

Radiolucent: refers to a dark area on the film
◦ Structures that are less dense are poor absorbers and
allow more radiation to reach the film
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Enamel
Cementum
Dentin
Bone
Muscle
Fat
Air
Restorative and surgical
materials have various
densities and abilities to
absorb.
Metallic materials are
more dense than enamel,
thus appear very white on
radiographs
NIH

Radiolucent depression between
alveolar ridge and mental ridge

Floor of sinus
extends to
alveolar crest due
to missing teeth
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Radiopaque
V-shaped

Extends bilaterally
away from ANS


Variable size and
shape, border
Variable position,
due to angulation
of x-ray beam

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Transmits
nasopalatine nerves
and vessels
Terminates in incisive
foramen
Not always seen


Superimposition
of septal cartilage
and vomer
Deviated septum


In the nasal fossa
Away from the
septum


Median suture
Uniform width
Overall Classification:
UNCLASSIFIED//REL TO NATO/ISAF