Conventional bitewing radiography

Abstract

Accurate detection and diagnosis of carious lesions is the prerequisite for application of the most effective caries management approach. However, the accuracy of proximal caries detection using visual-tactile assessment is limited. Additional diagnostic measures should therefore be performed to increase the validity of the diagnosis. Amongst various caries detection aids available, bitewing radiographs remain the gold standard for detection of proximal caries lesions. Here we describe a method for caries diagnosis using standardized bitewing holders. With this method the bitewing holders can be placed more precisely and reproducibly in the oral cavity. This approach increases accuracy of bitewing radiographs, which, due to the reproducible placement of the x-ray film, allows for monitoring of carious lesions long term.