Purpose: To undertake a systematic literature review of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) employed in the three phases of implant-based oral rehabilitation: planning, execution, and follow-up.

Materials and methods: MEDLINE (PubMed) and EMBASE bibliographic databases were searched up to January 2020 for studies assessing the use of MRI alone or in connection with CT and/or CBCT in the planning, execution, or follow-up of dental implant placement and/or bone grafting procedures in the maxilla or the mandible. Included studies were also assessed according to the diagnostic imaging efficacy scale presented by Fryback and Thornbury (F&T).

Results: The search strategy yielded 10 studies, which were included in the systematic review. Six studies focused on the implant planning phase, one on the immediate follow-up phase, and three on both planning and follow-up. No studies acquired signal from the bone. There was no consensus on the gold standard, MRI sequence, or field strength (T). One study reached F&T level 1, eight reached level 2, and one reached level 3.

Conclusion: The possible transition from radiography to ionizing-radiation-free imaging through MRI is still a novelty in dentistry and has yet to establish itself as a viable imaging modality suitable for replacing CT and CBCT. More studies are needed on the accuracy of the diverse MRI possibilities when applied for implant planning, execution, and follow-up before this diagnostic method can be considered as a reality for the clinician.