Examination of the contents of the pulp cavity in teeth.

Abstract In degenerative pulpitis, the pulp tissue in teeth degenerates and is replaced by air. This condition cannot be detected by x-rays and this paper describes pulsed ultrasonic reflection and transmission techniques used to investigate it. Design of transducers is treated in detail. The results of examinations of root canals and pulp chambers are described. Both techniques have limitations but the authors have been able to suggest how these might be overcome