A patient with suspected interproximal caries would most likely be assessed for a _______radiograph?

The most appropriate radiograph for assessing suspected interproximal caries is a bitewing radiograph. Bitewing radiographs are specifically designed to capture the crowns of the upper and lower teeth in a single film, allowing for the clear visualization of the contact areas between adjacent teeth. This view is crucial for detecting interproximal caries, as it provides the necessary perspective to assess whether decay is present between the teeth, which may not be visible during a routine clinical examination.

In contrast, cephalometric radiographs are used primarily for orthodontic analysis, focusing on the skeletal and dental relationships in profile view, which does not aid in the detection of caries. Periapical radiographs capture the entire tooth and surrounding bone structures, but they may not adequately show the interproximal areas due to their angulation. Panoramic radiographs provide a broad view of the entire dentition and surrounding structures, but they lack the detail needed to accurately diagnose localized conditions like interproximal caries. Therefore, bitewing radiographs are preferred for this specific diagnostic purpose.