Operative dentistry aje qualtrough, jd satterthwaite la morrow, pa brunton

Transillumination
This method is useful in the diagnosis of vertical crown fractures.
Radiography
Radiographic examination is a useful and necessary diagnostic aid.
However, it must be remembered that pathology does not result in
immediate radiographic changes and periapical changes are not usu-
ally seen until the cortical plate within the socket becomes involved
(seen radiographically as a loss of definition of the lamina dura). 
It may be necessary to take more than one radiograph at different
angles. Good quality radiographs, a paralleling technique and proper
film development are essential for accurate diagnosis.
ENDODONTIC IMAGING
Endodontic radiology utilises periapical radiographs
2
. Diagnosis,
treatment and follow-up radiographs for endodontic treatment 
are preferably taken by the paralleling technique using special film
holders.
Preliminary radiographs
A preliminary radiograph of the tooth is necessary before endodontic
treatment
3
. There must be minimal distortion of the final image; a par-
alleling technique and film holder should be used. Any pre-existing
radiographs of the tooth should be consulted as they may contribute
useful information about progression of a periapical lesion and
anatomy of the tooth and neighbouring structures.
Ideally, a periapical radiograph should cover the full length of 
the tooth root(s) and at least 2 mm of periapical bone. Should there be
evidence of a periapical radiolucency the area of the entire lesion 
and an area of surrounding normal bone should be visualised. It is
sometimes impractical to achieve this on a periapical film in which
case an occlusal or an extra-oral projection may be required.
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Principles of endodontics


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The radiograph should be carefully examined in a systematic 
manner. Reference should be made to adjacent anatomical structures,
the condition of the surrounding bone and associated periodontal 
ligament space. The anatomy of the pulp chamber and root canals
should be examined, details regarding the presence of caries, features
of the coronal restoration, number and anatomy of the roots being