What is one purpose of a dental radiograph?

• A. To whiten teeth
• B. To diagnose oral health issues
• C. To polish teeth
• D. To guide dental cleanings

Answer: (B)

One fundamental purpose of a dental radiograph, commonly known as an X-ray, is to diagnose oral health issues. Dental radiographs provide critical insights into the condition of teeth, bones, and surrounding structures that are not visible during a standard clinical examination.

These images allow dental professionals to identify problems such as cavities, tooth decay, impacted teeth, periodontal disease, and abnormalities in bone structure. The ability to detect these issues early can significantly improve treatment outcomes and help plan interventions before they become more serious and require more extensive procedures.

While whitening teeth, polishing them, and guiding dental cleanings are important aspects of dental care, they do not directly involve the diagnostic capabilities that radiographs provide. The focus of radiographs is on comprehensive assessment and treatment planning based on visualizing underlying dental issues, which is crucial for effective patient care.