Abstract
This narrative review aims to evaluate the current evidence for the application of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a radiation-free diagnostic exam, in some fields of dentistry. Background: Radiographic imaging plays a significant role in current first and second level dental diagnostics and treatment planning. However, the main disadvantage is the high exposure to ionizing radiation for patients. Methods: A search for articles on dental MRI was performed using the PubMed electronic database, and 37 studies were included. Only some articles about endodontics, conservative dentistry, implantology, and oral and craniofacial surgery that best represented the aim of this study were selected. Results: All the included articles showed that MRI can obtain well-defined images, which can be applied in operative dentistry. Conclusions: This review highlights the potential of MRI for diagnosis in dental clinical practice, without the risk of biological damage from continuous ionizing radiation exposure.
Highlights
Radiographic imaging plays a significant role in current first and second level dental diagnostics and treatment planning
With the introduction of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), three-dimensional imaging prescription has become common in orthodontics, periodontology, implantology, and endodontics, with dedicated software becoming increasingly useful in these specific disciplines [3]
The main disadvantage is the high exposure to ionizing radiation for patients, which does not allow clinicians to repetitively use this type of examination in a short window of time, with a consequent need for a careful assessment of the expected risk/benefit ratio in each individual case [4]
Summary
Radiographic imaging plays a significant role in current first and second level dental diagnostics and treatment planning. Conclusions: This review highlights the potential of MRI for diagnosis in dental clinical practice, without the risk of biological damage from continuous ionizing radiation exposure. The purpose of this narrative review was to evaluate the current evidence for the application of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a radiation-free diagnostic exam, in some fields of dentistry. The main disadvantage is the high exposure to ionizing radiation for patients, which does not allow clinicians to repetitively use this type of examination in a short window of time, with a consequent need for a careful assessment of the expected risk/benefit ratio in each individual case [4]. Three-dimensional images of the maxillofacial area are currently acquired by computed tomography (CT), cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call