Which intra-oral radiograph view is useful for showing occlusal caries in several teeth?

The choice of the horizontal bitewing radiograph for identifying occlusal caries in several teeth is grounded in its specific design and purpose. Horizontal bitewing films are particularly effective for showing interproximal areas between adjacent teeth and the occlusal surfaces. This view captures a broad segment of the dental arch, allowing for a clear assessment of multiple teeth in one image.

Horizontal bitewings demonstrate the crowns of both upper and lower teeth, providing a comprehensive view that can reveal caries that might not be visible on other radiographic views. By using this type of radiograph, dental professionals can effectively detect areas of decay and assess the extent of caries which is crucial for planning appropriate treatment.

In contrast, other options such as the anterior occlusal view focus primarily on the anterior teeth and do not capture sufficient posterior structure to assess multiple teeth for occlusal caries accurately. Periapical radiographs are primarily targeted at the roots and surrounding bone structures, offering limited visibility of the occlusal surfaces; thus, they are not ideal for detecting occlusal caries. Vertical bitewings, while useful for detecting interproximal caries in the posterior teeth, do not provide the same extensive view of occlusal surfaces as horizontal