[Clinical significance of the abnormal radiographic manifestations of pulp cavity].

Six cases showing abnormal radiographic appearance of the pulp cavity are presented in this article.According to the etiology.they are approximately divided into four patterns as follows:The first one was caused by hereditary disease,represented by mainly opalescent dentin.In the early stage,enlargement of the pulp cavity is obvious in radiograph,but in the late stage extensive atresia is observed.The second one was caused by tooth dysplasia.Its common clinical features are the maxillary lateral incisor accompanied by a lingual gingival groove and the mandibular second molar a "c-shaped" root canal.In radiograms,the former looks like a second root canal,while the latter regular pictures as if a reamer has perforated the pulp floor.The third one was caused by root fracture,especially root vertical fracture.The root canal space can be seen widened.The abnormal images might be due to the change of X-ray projected angulation.It's important that a clinical doctor must know all these in order to make correct diagnosis and render proper treatment.