3.

3 Indication of bitewing technique

The bitewing view is taken to visualize the crowns of the posterior teeth and the height of the alveolar
bone in relation to the cementoenamel junctions, which are the demarcation lines on the teeth which
separate tooth crown from tooth root. Routine bitewing radiographs are commonly used to examine for
interdental caries and recurrent caries under existing restorations. When there is extensive bone loss,
the films may be situated with their longer dimension in the vertical axis so as to better visualize their
levels in relation to the teeth. Because bitewing views are taken from a more or less perpendicular angle
to the buccal surface of the teeth, they more accurately exhibit the bone levels than do periapical views.
Bitewings of the anterior teeth are not routinely taken.
In short, bitewing technique is indicated for:

Detection of interproximal caries

Monitoring the progression of dental caries
Assessment of existing restorations
Assessment of periodontal status