Intraoral vs Extraoral Dental X-Rays: What’s the Difference?

One goes in the mouth. The other doesn’t. But it’s not that simple.

Intraoral and extraoral X-rays serve different purposes — and knowing when to use which one saves time, improves diagnosis, and keeps your clinic compliant. Here’s the breakdown.

Intraoral X-Rays (Inside the Mouth)

These are your daily drivers — quick, precise, and taken right in the chair. The sensor or film is placed inside the patient’s mouth to get up-close views of teeth and bone.

• Bitewing: Detects decay between molars, bone levels, and early periodontal disease
• Periapical: Shows the full tooth root-to-crown — useful for endo, abscesses, or cracked teeth
• Occlusal: Captures an entire arch — helpful in paediatrics, trauma, or pathology cases

Extraoral X-Rays (Outside the Mouth)

These give you the big picture. The machine stays outside the mouth and scans the jaws, skull, or sinuses from various angles.

• Panoramic: Shows the full jaw and surrounding anatomy — ideal for wisdom teeth, implants, or ortho planning
• Cephalometric: Lateral head X-ray — used in orthodontics and airway assessments
• CBCT: Advanced 3D imaging for surgical and implant cases

Quick Comparison

Can You Get By With Just One?

Technically, yes — but you’ll limit your diagnostic scope. Most clinics start with intraoral and add panoramic when ready. Some mobile units even let you switch between both types with one device.

When in Doubt, Ask Yourself:

• Am I diagnosing one tooth or the whole jaw?
• Do I need detail or an overview?
• Is this ortho, surgical, or general?

Our Take:
Start with a high-quality intraoral unit and digital sensor.
Add panoramic or CBCT as your services expand — or as your referrals increase.