Which projection is NOT intraoral?

• A. Panoramic radiograph
• B. Periapical radiograph
• C. Occlusal radiograph
• D. Bitewing radiograph

Answer: (A)

The key idea is the difference between intraoral and extraoral radiography. Intraoral views place the film or sensor inside the mouth and are used to examine individual teeth and surrounding bone—periapical focuses on tooth roots and surrounding bone, bitewing shows crowns and interdental bone, and occlusal views larger areas with the receptor inside the mouth. Extraoral views place the receptor outside the mouth and the beam passes around the head; panoramic radiography is a common extraoral exam that captures the entire upper and lower jaws in one image using a machine that rotates around the head. Because the receptor is outside the mouth, panoramic radiography is not intraoral.