What is a common use of occlusal radiographs?

Occlusal radiographs are primarily utilized for locating foreign bodies within the oral cavity and surrounding structures. This type of radiograph provides a broad view of the upper or lower jaw, which allows for a detailed assessment of the entire arch. It can effectively reveal the presence of foreign objects such as broken instruments, bone fragments, or other anomalies that may not be easily visible with other types of radiographs.

Although occlusal radiographs can sometimes provide supplementary information related to dental hygiene or jaw relationships, these purposes are not their primary use. The special view afforded by occlusal films makes them particularly advantageous for identifying larger structures or objects, which is why their use in locating foreign bodies is a common and effective application.