Type 3 Inspections are characterized by being which of the following?

• A. They are light only
• B. They require bitewings and selected PA's
• C. They require tongue depressors
• D. They are the most common type used in public health programs

Answer: (D)

Type 3 inspections are the simplest form of dental inspection used in population health. They rely on a basic visual survey with just a mouth mirror and good lighting, meaning no radiographs and no extensive probing or advanced equipment. Because this setup is quick, inexpensive, and feasible for screening large numbers, it’s the approach most commonly used in public health programs. The other options don’t fit this approach: you wouldn’t typically take radiographs like bitewings or selected periapicals during a Type 3 inspection, tongue depressors aren’t a standard requirement, and describing it as “light only” oversimplifies the actual instrumentation used.