An X-ray, also known as radiography, is a medical imaging technique. It uses very small amounts of electromagnetic radiation to create images of structures inside of the body that can be viewed on film or digitally. X-rays often are done to view bones and teeth, making it useful for diagnosing breaks, fractures, and diseases such as arthritis. A doctor may order an X-ray to look at organs and structures inside of the chest, including the lungs, heart, and breasts, and in the abdomen to evaluate the digestive tract.