What type of radiograph shows the entire tooth, including the root and surrounding bone?

The correct answer highlights that a periapical radiograph is specifically designed to capture the entire tooth structure, which includes both the crown and the root, as well as the surrounding supporting bone. This radiographic technique is crucial for dental professionals because it provides detailed images that are essential for diagnosing conditions related to the root, such as infections, abscesses, and bone loss, alongside any issues with the tooth itself.

While the bitewing radiograph focuses on the crowns of the upper and lower teeth and is particularly useful for detecting interproximal cavities, it does not capture the entire tooth and root structure. A panoramic radiograph offers a broad view of the jaws and teeth, allowing for a comprehensive overview but lacks the detail of individual tooth roots that a periapical film provides. Lastly, occlusal radiographs are generally used to visualize larger areas within the dental arch and do not specifically capture the detailed anatomy of an entire tooth as effectively as a periapical radiograph does. Thus, choosing periapical radiographs for this purpose ensures a thorough examination of both tooth and surrounding supporting structures.