Section IV. BITE-WING (INTERPROXIMAL) EXPOSURE TECHNIQUES
4-28. GENERAL
Bite-wing film has many uses. The main use is to detect decay between teeth
(including depth of caries) by obtaining an image of the crowns of the teeth without the
distortion that often occurs in a periapical examination. This is made possible by using
a low vertical angle of projection with the film packet held in a nearly vertical position.
No attempt is made to include the apices of the teeth. Bite-wing film is also used to
chamber. Both the maxillary and mandibular teeth of an area are shown on one film.
4-29. MOLARS AND BICUSPIDS (POSTERIOR TEETH)
For radiographs of posterior teeth, adjust the head so that the occlusal surfaces
of the maxillary teeth lie in a horizontal plane. Place a film packet in the mouth so that
the resulting radiograph will include the desired teeth. The lower part of the film will lie
between the tongue and the mandibular ridge; the upper part will lie against the roof of
the mouth. Have the patient slowly close his teeth on the tab. Adjust tube to an
average angulation of +8 degrees. Direct the central ray to pass straight through the
interproximal spaces to the center of the film at the level of the occlusal plane (see
figure 4-29). Follow the manufacturer's instructions for exposure times.
Figure 4-29. Posterior bite-wing technique.
MD0512
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