What are the main categories of dental X-rays?

The main categories of dental X-rays are indeed periapical, bitewing, and panoramic. Each of these categories serves a distinct purpose in dental imaging and patient assessment.

Periapical X-rays are designed to capture the entire tooth from the crown to the root, including the surrounding bone. This type of X-ray is essential for diagnosing issues such as infections, bone loss, or abscesses affecting the root area.

Bitewing X-rays allow for a view of the upper and lower teeth in one image, focused on the crowns of the posterior teeth. They are particularly useful for detecting cavities between teeth and assessing the health of the supporting bone.

Panoramic X-rays offer a comprehensive view of the entire mouth, including both dental arches, jaws, and surrounding structures, all in a single image. This wide-angle view is crucial for treatment planning, particularly for orthodontics or oral surgery, as it helps visualize the overall dental anatomy.

Choosing periapical, bitewing, and panoramic as the main categories reflects a fundamental understanding of the types of X-rays commonly utilized in dental practices to evaluate dental health and diagnose conditions effectively. Other options, while related to dental imaging, do not identify the primary categories typically used in clinical settings.