(TC70) The Dental MRI: From Radiographs to Resonance

The evolution of diagnostic imaging in endodontics has progressed from traditional radiographs to advanced modalities such as Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT).  Yet challenges persist with soft tissue resolution and concerns over radiation exposure. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), known for its superior soft tissue contrast and absence of ionizing radiation, emerges as a promising alternative. Recent innovations have resulted in the introduction of a dedicated dental MRI (ddMRI), utilizing specialized dental coils and compact 0.55 Tesla scanners, which has enhanced its accessibility and practicality for dental applications. (Greiser 2024)

This table clinic will showcase the latest in dental MRI technology and explore its potential for endodontic diagnostics and treatment planning. We will discuss how ddMRI can directly detect periapical inflammation, potentially allowing for earlier and more accurate diagnosis without relying solely on bone changes visible on radiographs (Juerchott 2018). Importantly, ddMRI shows promise in differentiating between types of inflammatory lesions around tooth apices, which could aid clinicians in treatment planning and improve patient outcomes (Wamasing 2023). We will discuss future ddMRI projects which may provide an advantage in evaluating healing and the ability to detect positive changes beyond just trends in  lesion size.  

By highlighting these advancements, we aim to demonstrate how ddMRI has the potential to revolutionize diagnostic processes, and ultimately improve patient outcomes. We will explore the future integration of ddMRI into clinical practice, offering insights into how this technology could set a new standard in endodontic imaging.