This document summarizes three types of dental radiographs: bite-wing radiographs, which are used to detect interproximal and occlusal caries; periapical radiographs, which show the roots of teeth and supporting bone structures; and panoramic radiographs, which provide an overview of the entire jaw and are used to evaluate dental development and bone lesions over time. Each type of radiograph provides different diagnostic information about teeth and surrounding tissues.

1. TYPES OF DENTAL
RADIOGRAPHS

2. Bite-wing:
Used primarily to detect interproximal caries,
occlusal caries that have penetrated into the
dentin, and possible caries under existing
restorations.
- A bite-wing radiograph will show:
• Surfaces involved
• Depth of the lesion in relation to the pulp
• Presence or absence of certain permanent teeth

3. Bite-wing Radiograph :

4. Periapical:
Used primarily to detect both normal conditions,
and pathology involving the roots of the teeth and their
supporting structures
- A periapical radiograph will show :
• Furcation or apical involvement.
• Presence of calcified tissues.
• External root or bone resorption.
• Internal root resorbtion.
• Anomalies of the supporting bone and associated
structures (cysts, supernumary or ectopically erupting
teeth, etc.

5. Periapical View

6. Periapical View

7. Panoramic:
Used primarily to provide baseline data for
growth and development, and to evaluate
changes that are occurring over time.
- A Panoramic radiograph will show:
• Presence or absence of permanent teeth
• Positions of the permanent teeth in relation to
the primary teeth
• Evaluation of bony lesions and TMJ

8. Panoramic View

9. Reference :
 Essentials of Dental Radiography and
Radiology. 3 Ed, Whaites 2003