Clinical caries observed on radiographs typically appear how compared to their actual size?

Clinical caries observed on radiographs typically appear smaller than their actual size due to the nature of how dental radiographs capture images. Radiographs produce a two-dimensional representation of three-dimensional objects, which can lead to distortion and size discrepancies.

When viewing a radiograph, the angles and distances of the structures being imaged can affect the perceived size of the carious lesions. Furthermore, factors such as the type of radiographic technique used, the angle of the X-ray beam, and the distance from the X-ray source to the teeth can all contribute to this size reduction. As a result, practitioners must be cautious and consider this inherent limitation when diagnosing and treating carious lesions based on radiographic findings.