Bitewing radiographs

"'Show crowns of both Max. and Mand. teeth; not root apices.
The primary reason for taking bitewing radiographs is to detect interproximal caries. They are
also useful in detecting periodontal disease. Bitewing films generally show the crowns of the
teeth, the alveolar crest, and the interproximal areas. In order for the film to be of use diagnostically, the quality of the following must be excellent: dimensional accuracy, image density, and
contrast and clarity of the image.
When taking bitewing radiographs, the film must be placed either horizontally or vertically.
Vertical bitewings will provide more periodontal information, such as boney defects and furcation
involvement. Remember: A loss of crestal bone is often associated with early periodontitis.The
periapical film is used (pedo or adult) with either cardboard tabs, sticky tabs, or a bitewing holder. Two bitewings are usually taken on a child and four (molar and premolar views) are usually
taken on an adult (or two long films-size 3).
Notes :
1. The vertical angulation for bitewing radiographs should be between +8 and +10 degrees.
2. Adjust horizontal angulation to direct the central ray toward the center of the film.
3. Alveolar bone resorption is best demonstrated on bitewing x-rays,
4. Vertical bitewing x-rays will show more alveolar bone than traditional horizontal bitewings.