Which technique is particularly useful for diagnosing interdental carious lesions in anterior teeth?

Transillumination is particularly effective for diagnosing interdental carious lesions in anterior teeth due to the unique properties of the technique. This method involves shining a light through the tooth structure, allowing the clinician to visualize any areas that are affected by dental caries. Sound enamel is translucent, while carious lesions appear darker due to their decreased density and translucency.

In anterior teeth, where dental caries may often occur between teeth and can be difficult to detect through visual examination alone, transillumination serves as a non-invasive and direct way to reveal these lesions. It enables the dentist or dental nurse to identify not only the presence of caries but also the extent of the decay.

Bitewing radiographs are useful for detecting caries, particularly in posterior teeth, but may not be as effective or practical for anterior teeth where only a small area is involved. Hot stimulation and palpation techniques are more useful for assessing pulp vitality and soft tissue conditions, rather than directly diagnosing carious lesions. Therefore, transillumination stands out as the most suitable technique for this specific diagnostic challenge.