HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What type of radiograph is used to view the coronal portion of the tooth?

1. Bitewing radiograph (BWX)

2. Panoramic radiograph

3. Periapical radiograph

4. Cephalometric radiograph

The correct answer is: Bitewing radiograph (BWX)

The bitewing radiograph is specifically designed to provide a view of the coronal portion of the tooth, which includes the crown and the area where the tooth meets the gumline. This type of radiograph captures both the upper and lower dental arches in a single image, allowing for the assessment of interproximal areas, which is essential for detecting cavities between teeth and evaluating bone levels. Bitewing radiographs focus on the crowns of the teeth and capture the necessary details about the coronal portions, making them integral in routine dental check-ups and for monitoring dental health over time. They are not intended for viewing the entire tooth length or detailed root structures, which distinguishes them from other radiographic types like periapical radiographs that provide detailed views of the entire tooth and surrounding bone. In contrast, a panoramic radiograph offers a broad view of the entire mouth, including all teeth and surrounding structures, but does not provide the same level of detail for the coronal areas specifically. A periapical radiograph centers on the tooth root and surrounding bone but again misses the specific focus on the coronal region that bitewings provide. Cephalometric radiographs are mainly used in orthodontics to assess the relationships of the jaw to the teeth and