Bitewing Radiograph — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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EasyRadiologyBitewing RadiographMFDS Part 1

A 12-year-old patient has closed posterior contacts. Following clinical examination, radiography is justified to assess for proximal caries in the posterior teeth. Which radiograph is most appropriate?

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Correct answer: E — Bitewing radiograph

A bitewing radiograph is the most appropriate view. It displays the crowns and proximal surfaces of opposing posterior teeth with geometry intended to minimise overlap, allowing caries hidden beneath closed contact points to be detected and its depth assessed. A periapical radiograph is primarily selected when the roots and periapical tissues must be examined and is not the preferred projection for routine proximal caries assessment. A panoramic radiograph has lower detail for this purpose and should not replace bitewings without another clinical indication. Lateral oblique and occlusal radiographs are used for other anatomical or diagnostic purposes and do not provide an optimal view of posterior proximal surfaces.

Reference: Scottish Dental Clinical Effectiveness Programme (SDCEP), Prevention and Management of Dental Caries in Children, 2nd edition, section 'Radiographic assessment', 2018. https://www.childcaries.sdcep.org.uk/guidance/assessment/clinical-assessment/assessing-carious-lesions/radiographic-assessment/