What level of supervision is necessary for taking intraoral and extraoral radiographs?

Taking intraoral and extraoral radiographs in the context of dental hygiene practice requires general supervision, meaning that a licensed dentist must authorize the procedure, but the dentist does not need to be physically present in the treatment facility while the radiographs are being taken.

Under general supervision, hygienists can perform certain tasks independently, provided they have been appropriately trained and the procedures fall within the scope of their practice. This type of supervision allows for efficiency in delivering patient care while ensuring that a dentist is still responsible for the overarching treatment plan.

In contrast, close supervision or requiring the doctor's physical presence would imply a higher level of oversight, which is not necessary for radiographic procedures typically performed by dental hygienists who have received proper training. Therefore, general supervision aligns with the regulatory practice standards that govern dental hygiene, ensuring patient safety while allowing for the competent execution of procedures like taking radiographs.