Admission Test for Dental Hygiene (ATDH) Practice

Which dental x-ray is commonly used to assess interproximal caries?

1. Bitewing x-ray

2. Panoramic x-ray

3. Periapical x-ray

4. Cephalometric x-ray

The correct answer is: Bitewing x-ray

The bitewing x-ray is the most effective method for assessing interproximal caries due to its specific design. These x-rays capture the area between the teeth, allowing dental professionals to clearly visualize the surfaces where cavities typically form. The bitewing film is positioned in the patient's mouth to provide a view of both upper and lower teeth simultaneously, focusing specifically on the areas where adjacent teeth contact. In contrast, panoramic x-rays provide a broad view of all the teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures, but they lack the detailed resolution needed to identify early interproximal caries accurately. Periapical x-rays focus on the structure of a single tooth and its surrounding bone but do not offer the same interproximal coverage as bitewing x-rays. Cephalometric x-rays are primarily used in orthodontics to assess the relationships of the teeth and jaws, making them unsuitable for detecting caries. Thus, the bitewing x-ray stands out as the ideal choice for identifying interproximal caries effectively.