What specific dental X-ray technique is used to highlight the roots of teeth?

The periapical X-ray technique is specifically designed to capture the entire length of a tooth, including the roots and surrounding bone. This type of radiograph is essential for identifying conditions associated with the roots, such as abscesses, cysts, or bone loss. By focusing on the area around the apex of each tooth, periapical X-rays provide detailed images that are crucial for diagnosing issues that may not be visible through visual examination alone.

In contrast, other types of X-rays serve different purposes. A pantomogram, or panoramic X-ray, gives a broad view of the entire mouth, including all the teeth and jaw bones, but it does not provide the detailed root information that a periapical X-ray does. Bitewing X-rays are primarily used to detect decay between teeth and monitor the height of bone around the teeth, making them less suitable for examining roots. Similarly, cephalometric X-rays are used to evaluate the relationships between the teeth, bones, and soft tissues in the head, which does not focus specifically on the roots of individual teeth. Thus, the periapical technique is the most appropriate choice when the goal is to highlight the roots of teeth.