Oral radiology, or dental radiology, is an essential branch of dentistry that emphasizes the use and interpretation of diagnostic imaging to evaluate the oral and maxillofacial areas. This specialty is pivotal in diagnosing and formulating treatment plans for a wide array of conditions affecting the teeth, jaw, and facial bones.

Practitioners of oral radiology utilize a variety of imaging techniques, including conventional X-rays, digital X-rays, Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and ultrasound. These technologies allow for detailed visualization of the bone and soft tissues of the face and neck, aiding in the detection of hidden dental structures, malignant or benign masses, bone diseases, and other critical conditions not visible during a standard dental examination.