Which type of dental radiograph shows interproximal contacts clearly?

Bitewing images are specifically designed to capture the interproximal areas of the teeth, which are the surfaces that face each other between adjacent teeth. These radiographs provide a clear view of cavities, bone levels, and the condition of the periodontal tissues in these tight spaces.

The bitewing technique involves positioning the film or digital receptor in the mouth in such a way that it includes both the upper and lower teeth in the same film, focusing on the areas where adjacent teeth touch. This is particularly useful for detecting dental caries that may not be visible in other types of radiographs.

In contrast, periapical images primarily focus on capturing the complete tooth structure from the crown to the root, which may not clearly show interproximal contacts. Panoramic images provide a broad view of the entire dentition and surrounding structures but lack the detail necessary for assessing interproximal areas. Likewise, occlusal images are intended to capture the full extent of the dental arch or other larger anatomical structures and are less effective for evaluating the tight contacts between adjacent teeth.

Therefore, bitewing images are the most appropriate choice for clearly showing interproximal contacts.