X-Ray of Tooth Decay

This xray shows dental decay in the lower right second molar tooth, denoted by the blue ring. The radiolucent (dark) area showing the caries can be seen to be quite large and encroaching upon the pulp chamber. If the decay has extended to and affected the pulp tissues a dentist will be required to carry out root canal treatment (prior to restoration of the coronal aspect of this tooth) or in severe cases extract the tooth. The dentist would have a choice of restorative options from amalgam to more cosmetic dentistry type options such as composite fillings or porcelain restorations.