Radiology Practice Test

What are three common purposes of a bitewing radiograph?

1. To examine tooth wear

2. To assess periodontal health

3. To check interproximal caries, bone height, and open margins

4. To evaluate oral hygiene habits

The correct answer is: To check interproximal caries, bone height, and open margins

The correct answer highlights three significant purposes of a bitewing radiograph. Bitewing images are particularly useful for checking interproximal caries, which are cavities that form between teeth and can be difficult to detect without radiographs. These images also aid in assessing bone height, providing valuable information about the alveolar bone surrounding the teeth, which is crucial for evaluating periodontal health. Furthermore, bitewings can help in identifying open margins on restorations, allowing clinicians to assess whether there are any gaps where decay might occur or where the restoration may need maintenance. While examining tooth wear, assessing periodontal health, and evaluating oral hygiene habits are important aspects of dental health, they are not the primary purposes of a bitewing radiograph. Bitewings focus more on the specifics of interproximal areas and overall dental structure rather than these broader evaluations.