What type of dental X-ray shows the entire tooth and surrounding area, specifically around the apex of a root?

The type of dental X-ray that shows the entire tooth along with the surrounding area, particularly focusing on the apex of the root, is the periapical X-ray. This image captures the whole tooth, including the crown, root, and the bone structures that surround and support the tooth, providing valuable information for diagnosing issues such as infections, root fractures, or abnormalities in the surrounding bone.

Periapical X-rays are specifically designed to highlight details in the area of interest around the root tips, which is crucial in identifying dental problems that may not be visible in other types of X-rays. These X-rays are typically taken one or two at a time, focusing on individual teeth, and are essential for root canal assessments and planning for other dental procedures.

The other types of X-rays mentioned do not serve this purpose. Bitewing X-rays primarily show the crowns of the upper and lower teeth in a specific area, ideal for assessing cavities between teeth but not focusing on the roots. A pantomogram provides a broad view of the entire mouth, capturing more anatomical context but lacking the detail specifically required around individual tooth roots. Cephalometric X-rays are used primarily in orthodontics to analyze skeletal relationships and are not intended for detailed tooth root examination.