Three-dimensional localization of impacted teeth using magnetic resonance imaging

Impacted teeth remain embedded in the jawbone beyond the normal eruption time with completed root growth. They can often get infected or damage neighboring teeth. Information about the three-dimensional position of impacted teeth is invaluable in orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. The purpose of this prospective study was to assess the feasibility of using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the three-dimensional localization of impacted teeth in children and adults. The study included 39 patients from the pediatric age group with different tooth impactions and seven adults with impacted wisdom teeth. MRI yielded a clear separation between impacted teeth and the surrounding tissue, and the position and angulation of impacted teeth in all three spatial dimensions could be assessed. Compared to conventional radiography, dental MRI provides the advantage of full volumetric morphology accompanied by complete elimination of ionizing radiation, which is particularly relevant for repeated examinations of the pediatric group.