A 24-year-old who hasn't seen a dentist in 2 years reports severe cold sensitivity in tooth #14. Per the ALARA principle, which radiographs should be taken?

Correct answer: A. Periapical and bitewing

• A. Correct. ALARA ('as low as reasonably achievable') favors targeted imaging: a periapical to assess the apex/pulpal status of #14 plus bitewings to detect interproximal caries — the minimum radiation for the diagnostic need.
• B. A panoramic gives a broad survey with less detail and is not the targeted choice for a single symptomatic tooth.
• C. Bitewings alone won't show the periapical region needed to evaluate the symptomatic pulp.
• D. A full-mouth series exposes the patient to far more radiation than this localized problem requires — contrary to ALARA.