A patient has submandibular swelling that worsens with eating, suggesting a salivary stone (sialolith) in Wharton's duct. Which radiograph best confirms the presence of this calculus?

Correct answer: C. Occlusal radiograph (cross-sectional)

• A. Incorrect. Periapical radiographs have a limited field of view and are not designed for floor-of-mouth pathology evaluation.
• B. Incorrect. Water's view is used for maxillary sinus evaluation — not submandibular pathology.
• C. CORRECT. An occlusal radiograph (cross-sectional view of the floor of the mouth) is the best standard radiograph for visualizing sialoliths in Wharton's duct (submandibular duct). It provides a direct 'overhead' view of the floor of the mouth where the majority of submandibular duct calculi are located.
• D. Incorrect. A panoramic radiograph can detect large calcifications in the submandibular region but has limited detail for the anterior floor of mouth and Wharton's duct.