What type of radiography uses a rotating x-ray source to produce images?

The type of radiography that utilizes a rotating x-ray source to produce images is Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). CBCT is distinct from traditional radiographic techniques because it employs a cone-shaped x-ray beam and a rotating x-ray source that captures multiple images around the patient. This allows for the creation of three-dimensional images of dental structures, soft tissues, and even nerve paths, all while providing a significantly lower radiation dose compared to conventional computed tomography (CT) scans.

This technologically advanced imaging technique is particularly advantageous in dental practices, as it helps in treatment planning for implants, assessing complex pathologies, and evaluating bone morphology with greater precision. The rotation of the x-ray source around a specific area captures a complete data set that can then be reconstructed into a detailed 3D image, enhancing the dentist's ability to visualize and diagnose.

Other types of radiography, like digital radiography, intraoral radiography, and panoramic radiography, do not utilize a rotating source. Digital radiography primarily involves sensors that capture images directly without film while intraoral radiography typically depicts individual teeth, and panoramic radiography captures a wide view of the dental arch, both using fixed x-ray sources.