National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Dental Hygienist Practice Test

Which type of x-ray is primarily used for visualizing the interproximal areas of teeth?

1. Bite-wing

2. Panoramic

3. Periapical

4. Occlusal

The correct answer is: Bite-wing

The bite-wing x-ray is specifically designed for visualizing the interproximal areas of the teeth, particularly in the posterior region of the mouth. This type of radiograph captures the crowns of the teeth and the bone levels between adjacent teeth, making it highly useful in detecting interproximal caries, periodontal disease, and assessing restorative work. The unique positioning of the film or digital sensor in a bite-wing x-ray, which is placed parallel to the biting surface of the teeth, allows clinicians to see the contacts and potential cavities between them clearly. This characteristic makes the bite-wing x-ray an essential tool in routine dental examinations and preventive care. In contrast, panoramic x-rays provide a broad view of the entire dental arch and surrounding structures but do not focus on the details of interproximal spaces. Periapical x-rays capture the full length of individual teeth, including the root, but may miss the finer details of contacts between adjacent teeth. Occlusal x-rays are typically employed to view the occlusal surfaces of teeth or to visualize the jawbone anatomy, which does not prioritize interproximal assessment. Thus, the bite-wing is clearly the most effective option for evaluating the interproximal areas of teeth.