Conventional film X-rays would require chemical processing and did not have the capability of changing contrast and gain. With digital X-rays, we can see the earliest of decays, and thus treat decay conservatively.
![Initial low exposure of X-ray](https://caugheydds.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Early-decay-visible-with-digital-X-rays-5-300x248.jpg)
![Contrast change on digital X-ray reveals decay](https://caugheydds.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Early-decay-visible-with-digital-X-rays-2-2-300x250.jpg)
This patient was seen in our hygiene department for routine cleaning and check-up. The ultra low-radiation exposures did not initially show the decay. By changing gain and contrast, the lesions were visible between the teeth. The treatment series of photographs show depth of decay.
![Pre-op photo: decay not evident](https://caugheydds.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Early-decay-visible-with-digital-X-rays-300x168.jpg)
![Initial cavity prep reveals depth of decay](https://caugheydds.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Initial-cavity-prep-reveals-depth-of-decay-500x273.jpg)
![Cavity preps completed](https://caugheydds.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Early-decay-visible-with-digital-X-rays-3-300x168.jpg)
![](https://caugheydds.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Early-decay-visible-with-digital-X-rays-4-500x256.jpg)
In treating the cavities under a rubber dam, we achieved life-like layered composite resin restorations that are an ideal match with the patient’s original tooth structure.