Ressonância magnética aplicada à Odontologia

Abstract

Diagnostic imaging in dentistry today depends primarily on techniques based on radiographs and computed tomography (CT) that impose some risks and limitations, including exposure to ionizing radiation. The magnetic resonance is an imaging method that is free of this radiation and has some specific applications in diagnostic imaging. The aim of this study was to conduct a literature review addressing magnetic resonance imaging as an adjunct instrument in diagnostic imaging in the field of Dentistry. Pubmed, Lilacs, Periódicos Capes and Bireme were consulted in search of studies and reports on the characteristics, dynamics of action, applicability and some clinical cases, as well as a relative comparison with other methods of obtaining images such as radiography, ultrasound and CT. It was observed that MRI has specificities that sometimes make it advantageous in comparison, for example to cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). On the other hand, it also has disadvantages such as high cost and operability. Its strong applicability is in the analysis of hydrated areas, such as tissues, fracture lines in bone or teeth and some pathological changes such as some types of tumors, with the advantage of not exposing the patient to ionizing radiation. In dentistry it is widely used in the evaluation of the temporomandibular joint, but it also has application in other specialties, such as in Surgery, Pathology, Endodontics and Periodontics. This study did not intend to stimulate the replacement of the CFFC or any other imaging method by magnetic resonance imaging, but to approach it as an alternative or adjunct to other imaging tests. Even though it is rare and rarely available in the clinical practice of dentistry, this study provides important information about MRI, in order to allow the dental surgeon to use it as an auxiliary tool in the final diagnosis of some pathologies or in the analysis of structures and variations anatomical. It may still prove to be a promising tool for diagnosis and planning in clinical dentistry, but much research to improve equipment aimed at dentistry, in addition to studies on the accuracy and specificity of images will still be needed.