A 16-year-old patient with a history of methamphetamine addiction presents for the first time to your office with rampant caries. Which radiographic series is most appropriate?

Correct answer: B. Full mouth series (FMX)

• A. Bitewing radiographs are useful for interproximal caries detection in recall patients, but are insufficient as the only radiograph for a new patient with rampant caries who needs comprehensive evaluation.
• B. CORRECT. A full mouth series (FMX) is indicated for new patients with extensive or rampant caries. It provides detailed periapical and interproximal views of all teeth, allowing complete assessment of caries extent, pulpal involvement, and bone levels — critical for a methamphetamine patient where decay is widespread and often severe.
• C. A panoramic radiograph provides a broad overview but lacks the detail needed to assess individual tooth caries depth, pulpal involvement, and periapical pathology that an FMX provides.
• D. Periapical radiographs of only affected teeth are inadequate when caries is rampant and widespread — a full mouth series is needed to capture the complete picture.