Abstract This review explores the potential of inorganic nanoscintillators for applications in detection, imaging, and therapy. It begins by comparing scintillation mechanisms in bulk materials versus nanocrystals, highlighting key differences related to characteristic interaction distances. The review then focuses on the synthesis and preparation of doped insulators, including oxides and fluorides, as well as semiconductor quantum dots. Finally, the last section discusses various applications where scintillating nanocrystals can offer significant advantages.