Dental Assistant how-to
How to Take Bitewing X-Rays
Bitewings help dentists find decay between teeth. Only take radiographs if you are properly certified in your state.
Bitewings help dentists find decay between teeth. Only take radiographs if you are properly certified in your state. In short: review; place; seat, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Review the dentist’s prescription and the patient’s health history; ask about pregnancy per office policy.
Place a lead or lead-equivalent apron with thyroid collar on the patient, if your office uses one.
Seat the patient upright with the occlusal plane parallel to the floor.
Position the sensor or film holder so it captures the distal of the canine through the molars.
Have the patient bite gently, align the X-ray cone with the positioning ring and expose.
Repeat for the other side and any additional views ordered.
Review the images for diagnostic quality, retake only if the dentist approves and document.
Safety reminders for dental assistants
- Follow CDC infection-control guidance and OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard
- Use proper radiation safety and never hold sensors for patients during exposures
- Wear gloves, masks and eye protection for every procedure
- Handle sharps carefully and dispose of them immediately
Key terms
Four-handed dentistry · High-volume evacuator (HVE) · Universal Numbering System · Mesial · Distal · Occlusal: see the full dental assistant glossary.