Which of the following is the best recommendation when it becomes impossible to place an intraoral image receptor because of an exaggerated gag reflex?

a. Substitute a size #0 image receptor.
b. Use topical anesthetic to numb the oral cavity.
c. Substitute an extraoral radiograph.
d. Request that the patient rinse with salt water.

c. Occasionally, the radiographer will encounter a patient or a particular region of the oral cavity where the patient cannot tolerate placement of an intraoral image receptor. The radiographer should take as many intraoral radiographs as possible and then supplement these with extraoral radiographs.