Dental MRI Scanner Makes US Debut at University of Minnesota

First-of-its-Kind Technology Arrives in American Dentistry

USA: The University of Minnesota School of Dentistry has become home to the United States’ first dental-dedicated magnetic resonance imaging (ddMRI) scanner. This innovative technology, known as the MAGNETOM Free.Max Dental Edition, emerges from a collaborative research initiative between Dentsply Sirona and Siemens Healthineers.

Advancing Oral Healthcare Through Innovation

The system represents a potential paradigm shift in dental imaging, offering radiation-free visualization of oral structures. Dr. Laurence Gaalaas, clinical associate professor at the University of Minnesota, expressed his enthusiasm: “I am most enthusiastic to pioneer an imaging technology in dentistry that potentially offers comprehensive answers to clinical questions we have thus far not been able to answer well, or ask at all.”

Clinical Applications and Research Potential

The ddMRI system aims to revolutionize several areas of dental practice, including third molar extraction, endodontics, and temporomandibular disorders. Dr. Don Nixdorf, director of TMD and orofacial pain at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, highlighted the technology’s potential impact: “From improved diagnostic confidence to early detection of oral diseases, this technology could be a real game changer for the dental industry.”

Industry Partnership and Future Prospects

The collaboration between Dentsply Sirona and Siemens Healthineers demonstrates a commitment to advancing dental imaging capabilities. Chip Farnham, director of institutional sales at Dentsply Sirona, noted: “We are very excited about the potential of ddMRI for the dental industry and look forward to advancing research into this promising field.”

Technical Innovation and Clinical Benefits

The system has been specifically engineered for dental applications, featuring specialized scan protocols and dedicated features for optimal patient positioning and image quality. Donald Hardie from Siemens Healthineers emphasized their commitment to innovation, stating: “To continuously pioneer breakthroughs in healthcare and enhance access to high-quality care, we are committed to exploring the potential of new clinical fields.”

Current Status and Future Implementation

It’s important to note that the MAGNETOM Free.Max Dental Edition is still under development and awaiting FDA submission and EU CE marking. The current installation at the University of Minnesota is strictly for research purposes and will not be used for patient care at this stage.

The development of this technology marks a potentially significant advancement in dental diagnostics, promising to provide practitioners with unprecedented insights into oral health conditions while offering patients a radiation-free imaging option.