What Is a Bitewing X-Ray
A bitewing X-ray is a type of dental X-ray that captures the upper and lower back teeth on the same image. It shows the crowns of several teeth at once, along with the bone level between them.
The name comes from the technique: a small sensor or film is held in place by the patient gently biting down on a small tab or wing. This keeps the sensor steady while the image is taken.
Bitewing X-rays are one of the most routine forms of dental imaging. They are quick, straightforward, and provide information that a clinical examination alone cannot.
What Does a Bitewing X-Ray Show
Bitewing X-rays are primarily used to detect problems that are not visible to the naked eye during an examination:
- Cavities forming between teeth, where they touch — these are the most common areas for decay to start and the hardest to see without imaging
- Early decay under existing fillings or crowns
- Changes in bone density between teeth, which can be an early sign of gum disease
- The fit and condition of existing restorations such as fillings and crowns
What bitewing X-rays do not show is the full root of the tooth or the surrounding bone in its entirety. For that, a panoramic X-ray or cone beam CT (CBCT) would be used instead.
How Is a Bitewing X-Ray Taken
The process takes only a few minutes.
A small sensor is placed inside the mouth against the back teeth. You bite gently on a small tab to hold it steady, and the X-ray is taken from outside the mouth in a matter of seconds. You remain seated throughout.
Most patients find it straightforward. If you have a strong gag reflex, let your dentist know — there are positioning adjustments that can help.
A standard set of bitewing X-rays covers both the left and right sides of the mouth, producing two to four images in total.
How Often Are Bitewing X-Rays Needed
The frequency depends on your individual risk level.
For adults with good oral health and no history of significant decay, bitewing X-rays are typically taken every one to two years at routine check-ups. For patients with a history of cavities, active gum disease, or other risk factors, your dentist may recommend them more frequently.
Children and teenagers are often seen more regularly because their teeth are still developing and decay can progress faster in younger patients.
Your dentist will advise on the right interval for you based on your dental history and current oral health.
Are Bitewing X-Rays Safe
Yes. The radiation dose from a bitewing X-ray is very low — among the lowest of any X-ray used in dentistry.
A lead apron may be placed over the chest and lap during the X-ray as a precaution. If you are pregnant, always let your dentist know before any X-ray is taken so they can assess whether imaging is necessary at that time.
Frequently Asked Questions
A visual examination can detect decay that has already broken the surface of a tooth. Bitewing X-rays detect decay earlier — particularly between teeth, where it begins as a small area of mineral loss that is invisible from the outside. Catching it at this stage means a much smaller, simpler restoration.
No. Bitewing X-rays focus on the back teeth — premolars and molars — where most decay between teeth occurs. They do not show the front teeth or the full length of the roots. Other X-ray types are used when a broader view is needed.
No. A full mouth series includes multiple images that together cover all teeth and roots. Bitewing X-rays are a subset — they show the crowns and bone levels of the back teeth only. Your dentist will choose the type of imaging based on what they need to assess.
Yes. Bitewing X-rays are routinely used in children, particularly once the back teeth have come through. The radiation dose is very low, and early detection of decay in children is important — especially in baby teeth, where decay can affect the development of the permanent teeth underneath.
Yes. Bitewing X-rays are taken as part of routine check-ups at our dental clinics in Dubai — Jumeirah, Marina Walk, Springs Souk, and Uptown Mirdif. Your dentist will advise whether they are needed at your appointment.
Most dental insurance plans cover bitewings as part of routine dental visits, which typically include a clinical examination and X-rays. Coverage limits and frequencies vary by plan. Call us on 04 394 7777 and we will be more than happy to check your coverage for you. For more information, visit our Insurance & Payment Options page.
