These are made with the help of a film or a digital sensor and are divided into 2 groups:

• Intra oral: the film is placed inside the mouth
• Extra oral: the film is placed outside the mouth.

Intraoral radiographs are the most common:

Bitewings
the film or sensor is placed just behind the crowns of the molars and premolars. This x-ray allows the detection of interdental cavities (caries) and allows an evaluation of the bone structure close to the crowns.

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Apical x-rays
the film or sensor is placed along the axis of the teeth next to the tongue or palate. This x-ray allows the detection of bone lesions (cysts or apical lesions).
 

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Extra oral radiographs:

Panoramique (OPT) 
gives an overall view of the teeth and supporting bone. It is less precise than the intraoral radiographs, particularly for detecting caries.

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Lateral head-film
this x-ray is an essential part of an orthodontic documentation; its analysis determines the horizontal and vertical position of the maxillae, and the axis of the incisors. It also allows a follow-up of the patients growth pattern and coarse of treatment.

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Cone beam CT
this is the most precise but also the exam that emits the most radiation, although less than a medical scanner. It is performed if a three-dimensional vision is necessary, usually in surgery or implantology.
A specialist in dentofacial imaging makes the realization and interpretation of this image in a radiological institution.