Short Description
An intraoral dental X-ray that captures the upper and lower back teeth to detect cavities, bone loss, and other oral health issues.
Long Description
A bitewing is a type of intraoral dental X-ray that provides a detailed view of the crowns of both upper and lower teeth in a specific area of the mouth. It is commonly used to detect cavities between teeth, monitor bone levels for signs of gum disease, and assess dental restorations like fillings and crowns.
The term "bitewing" comes from the small wing-shaped tab that patients bite down on to hold the X-ray film or sensor in place. These intraoral X-rays offer valuable diagnostic information that is not visible through a standard oral examination, allowing early detection of dental problems before they become severe.
Dentists typically recommend bitewing X-rays once a year for routine check-ups or more frequently for patients at high risk of decay or periodontal disease. Since they use minimal radiation exposure, they are safe when performed as needed, and protective measures such as lead aprons further reduce exposure risks.