In dental radiography, which type of film is generally faster?

In dental radiography, extraoral films are generally considered to be faster than intraoral films. This is because extraoral radiographic procedures typically use larger film sizes and are designed to capture images of broader areas of the dental structure, such as panoramic views of the entire dentition and surrounding anatomy. Due to the larger size, extraoral films can be exposed to radiation over a larger area and often require less exposure time to obtain a diagnostic image compared to intraoral films, which are small and need to be positioned individually in the mouth.

The increased efficiency in capturing images with extraoral films translates to shorter exposure times for patients, making them a faster option in practices where broader imaging is required. Intraoral films, on the other hand, are used for detailed examinations of specific teeth or areas and may require more meticulous positioning and longer exposure times to ensure clarity and detail in the images captured.

Therefore, the notable speed and convenience of extraoral films in specific imaging situations contribute to their classification as faster in comparison to intraoral films.