Applications of magnetic resonance imaging in dentistry and material compatibility: an update

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an important and useful diagnostic tool with a wide spectrum of uses. This article aims to provide an update on the uses of MRI in various oral and maxillofacial procedures, the unwanted effects of dental materials on MRI, and the compatabilities of various dental materials and MRI. A dental consultation is necessary before any head and neck MRI is performed to avoid unwanted effects of dental restorations, such as artifacts in the area of interest or radiofrequency-induced heating of the dental material. Knowing what materials can remain and what should be removed before a patient undergoes scanning is of the utmost importance to prevent damage to the image quality, the patient's tissues, or both.