Which radiographs are used for PSR codes 0-2?

• A. Panoramic and 4 BWX's
• B. FMX With PA's and Panoramic
• C. Panoramic Only
• D. 4 BWX's Only

Answer: (A)

For PSR screening, codes 0-2 are based on limited periodontal findings, so you want enough radiographic information to detect early bone changes without a full diagnostic set. A panoramic radiograph gives a broad view of the jaws and overall bone levels, while four bitewing radiographs provide detailed images of the interproximal surfaces to identify early bone loss and calculus that might not be visible on a panorama. Together, panoramic plus four bitewings supply the necessary information to accurately assign PSR codes 0–2 without overdoing the imaging.

Using a full-mouth series with periapicals would be more than needed for 0–2, a panoramic alone misses some subtle interproximal changes, and four bitewings alone don’t give the broad overview a panoramic provides.