What Are X-Rays?
X-rays are a form of energy that travels in waves. X-rays can enter solid objects, where they either are absorbed or continue to pass through. X-rays tend to be absorbed by denser objects but pass easily through less dense objects.
Teeth and bone are very dense, so they absorb X-rays. X-rays pass more easily through gums and cheeks. That's why cheeks and gums appear dark and without detail on a dental X-ray, but teeth show up much lighter. Restorations such as crowns and fillings, which are even denser than bone, will show up as solid, bright white areas. Dental decay and caries (cavities) will appear on an X-ray as a darker patch.
What You See on an X-Ray
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