What is the main purpose of dental radiographs?

The primary purpose of dental radiographs is to diagnose caries and other dental issues. These imaging techniques allow dental professionals to obtain a detailed view of the internal structures of the teeth and surrounding bone, which cannot be seen during a clinical examination. Radiographs are critical in identifying cavities, detecting early signs of decay, assessing the health of the bone around teeth, and diagnosing other dental conditions such as infections, cysts, or tumors.

While some options may include aspects related to dental care, they do not serve the main purpose of radiographs. For instance, taking artistic pictures of the teeth is not a clinical function of radiographs; rather, they are a diagnostic tool used for treatment planning and patient care. Assessing the fit of dentures is also a practical concern but does not rely primarily on radiographic images. Showcasing cosmetic treatments may involve visual documentation but again, is not the essential role of radiographs in dentistry. Thus, the focus on diagnosis aligns with the fundamental objective of utilizing dental radiographs in practice.