Bitewing Radiography as a Complement to the Visual-Tactile Examination

Bitewing radiographs play a crucial role in complementing the visual and tactile examination in the detection of dental caries, especially in areas that are difficult to assess through conventional methods. While visual and tactile exams rely on the clinician’s ability to detect surface-level changes, bitewing radiography provides a more detailed view of interproximal areas, where caries often develop and are difficult to detect early.

The visual-tactile examination is essential for assessing the overall health of the teeth and gums, but it has limitations, and alone also fails to detect a number of occlusal and approximal caries lesions in deciduous teeth in children.

Bitewing radiographs offer a more accurate assessment of these areas, allowing for the identification of hidden caries that may not be visible or palpable during a routine exam. This is especially important for detecting approximal caries and monitoring the progression of lesions that are not yet symptomatic. Another way in which bitewing radiography complements the visual-tactile examination is in the diagnosis of recurrent caries lesions.

Using bitewing radiographs in conjunction with a thorough visual-tactile examination enhances diagnostic accuracy, improves early detection of caries, and supports better treatment planning. By providing a comprehensive view of both the tooth surface and interproximal areas, bitewing radiographs help clinicians make more informed decisions regarding the need for intervention and the appropriate timing for restorative treatments.