Thirty-three two-year dental hygiene programs throughout the United States were surveyed to identify the radiographic imaging system most often used and the accompanying rationale for that decision. A literature review identified the three radiographic imaging systems most frequently used and indicated that all dental hygiene programs had the objective of using the technique and film group that produced a radiograph with as little radiation exposure as possible but with an excellent quality film for diagnostic purposes. The radiographic systems identified in the literature review were included in the survey: D-speed film, E-speed film, and xeroradiography, and a column was provided for other systems. The majority of respondents (55 percent) indicated E-speed film as the film choice, evidencing a concern for protecting the patient from minor amounts of excess radiation. Respondents indicated that the XCP paralleling technique was important to production of a good radiograph, but not always possible. Xeroradiography, which further reduces radiation exposure to the patient, was not used by any of the programs. Use of the panorex (the only "other" system identified) coupled with an adequate bite-wing survey could be a viable option, but did not seem to be employed in dental hygiene programs. Teaching of all types of radiographic imaging in the dental hygiene curriculum was recommended. (Appendixes include a 10-item bibliography, the survey instrument, and some survey responses.) (YLB)