For decades, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) has been dentistry's most powerful imaging tool. But a new technology -- a dedicated dental MRI system developed through a collaboration with Dentsply Sirona and Siemens -- may change dental diagnosis. And it isn't replacing CBCT, it will do things that CBCT simply cannot do.
In this episode of The DrBicuspid.com Podcast, DrBicuspid Editor-in-Chief Kevin Henry speaks with Dr. Don Tyndall, PhD, MSPH, a maxillofacial radiology expert at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Adams School of Dentistry, who has 46 years of dental imaging experience. Tyndall has been directly involved in research on the dedicated dental MRI system and offers one of the clearest explanations of how it works and why it matters.
The core advantage, Tyndall explains, comes down to one word: inflammation. CBCT can show bone loss or bone gain, but it cannot detect active inflammation. Dental MRI can, which opens up clinical possibilities that have never existed before in dentistry. Imagine being able to confirm whether a periapical lesion is still inflamed or simply a healed scar. Imagine identifying which tooth is causing a patient's pain based on pulp vitality. Imagine detecting edema in the bone before any periodontal bone loss has occurred.
Beyond those applications, Tyndall describes how MRI visualizes the lingual nerve -- something cone beam cannot do -- which has significant implications for surgical planning and reducing nerve damage risk. He also addresses how AI will play a central role in improving image quality and eventually make the technology more accessible through icon-driven, push-button protocols rather than requiring deep technical expertise.
As to when practices will see this technology, Tyndall is measured but optimistic. Early adoption will likely start at universities, military facilities, and large DSOs. But he draws a direct parallel to CBCT, a technology many once doubted would ever reach the general practice level, and one that is now considered indispensable.
For practices watching the horizon on imaging technology, this conversation is essential listening.
Learn more about the product here. Contact Dr. Tyndall at [email protected] with questions.
