Short-scale contrast

A radiograph that demonstrates large differences in density between adjacent areas. Short-scale contrast is a result of low kilovoltage peak (kVp). In dental radiography, for example, a kVp less than about 60 must be used to produce a radiograph with short-scale contrast.

A radiograph characterized by predominantly bright areas attributed to the utilization of lower kilovoltages. Within the lower kilovolt peak (Kv.P.) range, the resulting image displays a range of five to eight shades, consisting of a blend of black and white tones.