This narrative review explores the evolving applications of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in the field of dentistry, highlighting its potential as a non-invasive, radiation-free diagnostic modality with superior soft tissue contrast. Despite initial limitations—including motion artifacts, lower spatial resolution for hard tissues, and susceptibility to metal-induced distortion—recent technological advances have significantly expanded MRI’s clinical utility in dental practice. This review discusses the current and emerging roles of MRI in evaluating temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, salivary gland pathologies, soft tissue lesions, and in pre-implant planning. Enhanced imaging techniques, including the development of dedicated dental coils, rapid acquisition protocols, and metal artifact reduction sequences, have improved both image quality and diagnostic accuracy. While not yet commonplace in routine dental settings due to cost and accessibility constraints, this review emphasizes MRI’s growing relevance as a complementary tool alongside cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and conventional radiography. Continued interdisciplinary research is essential to fully realize MRI’s potential in comprehensive dental diagnostics.
Keywords: Magnetic resonance, Imaging, ddMRI, MRI, Dentistry, Endodontics, Implantology, Maxillary sinus, Dental materials, CBCT.
