Which intraoral view best evaluates periodontal bone loss?

• A. Panoramic
• B. Occlusal
• C. Bitewings
• D. Periapical

Answer: (C)

Bitewing radiographs are the best way to evaluate periodontal bone loss because they specifically capture the height of the alveolar bone around the teeth, especially in the interproximal areas where bone loss is most evident. By imaging the crowns and a portion of the roots along with the adjacent crest, bitewings show the relationship between the crestal bone and the cemento-enamel junction across multiple teeth in a single view. This allows you to detect early changes in bone height, identify horizontal or vertical patterns of loss, and compare changes over time with consistent angle and reference points. Other views can show broader anatomy or a single tooth’s root area but don’t provide the reliable interproximal bone detail across many teeth that bitewings do, so they’re less ideal for assessing generalized periodontal bone loss.