Which lesions appear on proximal surfaces in cervical areas as radiolucent, saucer-shaped defects?

Which lesions appear on proximal surfaces in cervical areas as radiolucent, saucer-shaped defects?

• A. Root caries
• B. Cervical burnout
• C. Root lesions
• D. Proximal lesions

Answer: (C)

Root caries on proximal surfaces in the cervical area show up as radiolucent, saucer-shaped defects on radiographs. This distinctive saucer-like pattern results from demineralization of dentin where the root surface is exposed near the CEJ, typically on proximal surfaces. Cervical burnout can mimic caries but appears more as a diffuse, poorly defined radiolucency at the cervical area and doesn’t have that defined saucer shape. So the lesion described fits the appearance of a root lesion (root caries) best due to its location, cervical proximity, and characteristic saucer-shaped radiolucency.

Root caries on proximal surfaces in the cervical area show up as radiolucent, saucer-shaped defects on radiographs. This distinctive saucer-like pattern results from demineralization of dentin where the root surface is exposed near the CEJ, typically on proximal surfaces. Cervical burnout can mimic caries but appears more as a diffuse, poorly defined radiolucency at the cervical area and doesn’t have that defined saucer shape. So the lesion described fits the appearance of a root lesion (root caries) best due to its location, cervical proximity, and characteristic saucer-shaped radiolucency.