Intraoral radiographs are not the only way to obtain dental images. There are also extraoral radiographs. Itt is already very common to obtain images through the use of cone beam computed tomography (CBTC); this type of image generates more information because the image is in different planes as a three-dimensional image (3D). An investigation published in the journal of oral and maxillofacial surgery, conducted by the academic and professional community of WHO determined that the use of cone beam tomography is safe since it ensures safety parameters for the patient in terms of radiation exposure.

The decision of what type of image to request depends on different factors but fundamentally it is based on what is to be observed: the position of a tooth, the presence of periodontal disease, fractures, infections, the evaluation of any treatment, among others. It is important to emphasize that dental x-ray examinations are safe according to the American Dental Association (ADA) since they have a very low level of radiation exposure, which makes the risk of possible harmful effects very small.