Age- and tooth-related pulp cavity signal intensity changes in healthy teeth: a comparative magnetic resonance imaging analysis.

Objective: To determine if it is possible to measure age-related pulp cavity signal intensity changes by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Study Design: Dental pulp cavity signal intensities were assessed in 92 test subjects on the basis of MRI signal intensity measurements at freely defined regions of interest by using T1 gradient echo sequences before and after contrast-agent administration. Relative signal intensity differences were calculated and provided the basis for age- and tooth-related comparisons.