Bitewing Radiography

Bitewing radiography is a standard intraoral radiographic technique that captures the coronal portions of both maxillary and mandibular teeth in a single image, with the patient biting on a film holder or digital sensor. Introduced in the early 20th century and formalized as a diagnostic standard, bitewing radiographs are the primary image type for detecting approximal caries, monitoring alveolar bone level for periodontal disease assessment, and evaluating dental restorations and radiographic density changes. Digital bitewings have reduced radiation exposure and improved image quality and archiving.