Radiology · single question
A patient has swelling in the submandibular area. Which radiograph would BEST evaluate the source of a possible salivary gland obstruction?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Occlusal radiograph
- A. Incorrect. Waters view evaluates paranasal sinuses — not the submandibular region.
- B. Correct. An OCCLUSAL radiograph (mandibular cross-sectional view) is the best radiograph to evaluate the floor of the mouth, sublingual/submandibular glands, and detect sialoliths (calculi in Wharton's duct). It provides a cross-sectional view not available on standard films.
- C. Incorrect. Periapical radiographs are excellent for individual teeth but cannot evaluate the floor of the mouth or salivary duct anatomy effectively.
- D. Incorrect. Lateral cephalometric radiographs show skeletal profile for orthodontics — not submandibular soft tissue pathology.