Abstract: This article presents an overview of the contemporary imaging systems applicable to the maxillofacial/ craniofacial complex. Each system is compared in terms of strengths and weaknesses, advantages and limitations. Select pathologic entities are used to illustrate the diagnostic yield of each imaging modality. Since justification for prescribing an imaging study must balance the risk and benefit to the patient, the radiation burden of each imaging system is integrated within the context of the discussion.