MRI for Dental Anesthesia

(MRI and LA Trial)

RU
Overseen ByRachel Uppgaard, DDS, FACS
Age: 18+
Sex: Any
Trial Phase: Academic
Sponsor: University of Minnesota
No Placebo GroupAll trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial explores how a special type of MRI, called ddMRI, can visualize the effects of dental anesthesia. Researchers aim to use MRI to observe the distribution and effectiveness of anesthesia in the mouth. This study seeks to improve understanding of anesthesia's effectiveness during dental procedures. Healthy individuals who can attend in-person sessions and have had no recent dental trauma might be suitable candidates for this trial. As an unphased study, this trial offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance dental care.

What prior data suggests that this MRI technique is safe for dental patients?

Studies have shown that a special type of MRI, called dental-dedicated MRI (ddMRI), effectively visualizes the distribution of local anesthesia in the mouth. This MRI is safe and functions similarly to a regular MRI by capturing images.

Research indicates that local anesthesia in dentistry is very safe when administered by trained professionals, such as dental hygienists. Common drugs like lidocaine and articaine have a strong safety record. These drugs are widely used and considered among the safest options for dental procedures. However, excessive doses can cause issues like dizziness or a racing heart, so following recommended doses is crucial.

Overall, existing research confirms the safety of both ddMRI and local anesthesia. The MRI assists doctors in assessing the effectiveness of the anesthesia.12345

Why are researchers excited about this trial?

Researchers are excited about the MRI for dental anesthesia trial because it offers a new way to visualize how local anesthetics spread and work in the mouth. Unlike traditional methods, which rely on patient feedback and clinical judgment, the ddMRI technique provides a detailed image of anesthetic distribution and intensity. This could lead to more precise and effective dental procedures, reducing discomfort and improving outcomes for patients. By directly observing how anesthesia behaves, dentists might tailor treatments better, enhancing both safety and efficiency.

What evidence suggests that ddMRI is effective for observing dental anesthesia?

This trial will use ddMRI scanning to observe the distribution of dental anesthesia after administration. Research has shown that MRI can help doctors visualize the spread of dental anesthesia in the mouth. Although MRI doesn't relieve pain, it reveals precisely where the anesthesia travels after administration. This is crucial because the success of dental anesthesia relies on its effective delivery and distribution. Studies indicate that dental anesthesia can achieve success rates of up to 100% in some cases. Tracking anesthesia with MRI might enhance these rates by enabling doctors to refine their techniques for improved outcomes.23467

Who Is on the Research Team?

RU

Rachel Uppgaard, DDS, FACS

Principal Investigator

University of Minnesota

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for dental patients who are receiving local anesthesia and can safely undergo an MRI scan. People with conditions that make MRI unsafe, such as certain metal implants or severe claustrophobia, cannot participate.

Inclusion Criteria

Able to provide informed consent
Able to appear in person at OMRIC on the days indicated for the study
Health status of American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class 1 or 2
See 1 more

Exclusion Criteria

I have numbness or tingling in my lower jaw or chin area.
ASA class 3 or higher
Pregnant patients
See 9 more

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

1-2 weeks

Anesthesia Administration

Local anesthesia is administered to dental patients, followed by ddMRI scanning to evaluate the distribution and intensity of the anesthetic

1 day
1 visit (in-person)

Immediate Evaluation

Patient reported sensation and ability to sense touch, pressure, and direction are evaluated within 1 hour of the nerve block

1 hour

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for any delayed reactions or side effects after the procedure

1 week

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

  • ddMRI

Trial Overview

The study is testing whether a special type of MRI designed for dental use (ddMRI) can help doctors see how local anesthesia spreads in the mouth during dental procedures.

How Is the Trial Designed?

1

Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: ddMRI scanningExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Find a Clinic Near You

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

University of Minnesota

Lead Sponsor

Trials
1,459
Recruited
1,623,000+

Citations

Local Anesthetic Usage Among Dentists: German and ... - PMC

The aim of this study was to analyze the use of dental local anesthetics in Germany compared with international data.

Study Details | NCT07602686 | MRI and Local Anesthesia

The ddMRI will take place after anesthesia administration. The ddMRI will allow researchers to see and measure the distribution of the local anesthetic, as well ...

A narrative review on local anesthetics in dentistry

This review reinforces that the effectiveness and safety of dental anesthesia depend not only on drug selection but also on context-driven ...

Trends in Local Anesthesia Delivery

Research demonstrates that delivery via spray into the ipsilateral nostril of the treatment area achieved adequate anesthesia 84% to 90% of the ...

Research Demonstrates the Safety of Local Anesthesia ...

An analysis of clinically active dental hygienists in Pennsylvania self-reported high success rates with local anesthesia: 95% to 100% success ...

Selection of the safest local anesthetic for dental treatment in ...

Mepivacaine, lidocaine, and articaine are among the safest agents for various systemic conditions. An evidence based, condition specific approach enhances ...

Update on Maximum Local Anesthesia Dosages

The current FDA recommendation lists a 3.2 mg/lb maximum, with no absolute maximum established; however, based on the epinephrine content, there ...