The clinical trial demonstrated that MAGNETOM Free.Max Dental Edition can differentiate active inflammation from healthy and scar tissue, as well as assess pulp vitality non‑invasively to complement chairside testing and clinical observations. It also showed that the system can image teeth and help assess their position in relation to neighbouring teeth and nearby nerves.

“MAGNETOM Free.Max Dental Edition represents a significant advancement in dental imaging, providing excellent insights into dental structures that were not readily visible in other imaging modalities, without the risks associated with ionising radiation. The ability to observe the same region of interest employing different [dental MRI] imaging sequences provides significantly more information regarding the pathological processes in hard and soft tissue, and this results in a more accurate understanding of the lesion. This capacity to see the clarity of the soft-tissue detail produced by [MAGNETOM Free.Max Dental Edition] has clear potential to enhance diagnostic confidence in areas where current modalities have limitations,” said Dr Donald Tyndall, professor of diagnostic sciences at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in the US, who reviewed the clinical trial findings and collaborated in the FDA clearance process.

MAGNETOM Free.Max Dental Edition: Complementing existing imaging solutions

By providing advanced soft-tissue contrast without the use of ionising radiation, MAGNETOM Free.Max Dental Edition complements intra-oral, panoramic and CBCT imaging in cases in which soft-tissue assessment is critical. The system is the first of its kind and was developed by leading scientists in Europe and the US specifically to enhance dento-maxillofacial diagnostics. MAGNETOM Free.Max Dental Edition is primarily intended for hospitals, large dental clinics and universities. The imaging workflow, including patient set-up, can be completed in 20 minutes or less, highlighting the system’s efficiency for clinical use.

“This innovation is a powerful addition to our imaging portfolio, which includes Axeos, Orthophos SL and Heliodent Plus. We’re proud to have contributed to developing the industry’s first MRI system for dentistry and the advancement of diagnostic capabilities in the field,” observed Daniel Scavilla, president and CEO of Dentsply Sirona.

“We are dedicated to expanding the clinical impact and reach of MRI. We are excited to see the potential of [dental MRI] being validated through clinical trials, which will pave the way for a new clinical field that will benefit dental practitioners and patients alike,” said Andreas Schneck, head of MRI at Siemens Healthineers.

Advanced clinical training

Clinicians interested in incorporating dental MRI into their practice can participate in an advanced hands‑on training programme taking place in April at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities in Minneapolis in the US. This two‑day course will cover dental MRI imaging protocols, recommended indications, MRI facility protocols and patient safety considerations, hands‑on image acquisition, and practical interpretation sessions on temporomandibular joint imaging and other dento-maxillofacial cases. Additionally, those interested can learn more about MAGNETOM Free.Max Dental Edition by visiting the Dentsply Sirona booth at the American Dental Education Association annual session, taking place from 21 to 24 March in Montreal in Canada.

For more information, visit www.dentsplysirona.com/ddmri.