Applications of functional magnetic resonance imaging for analysis of oral functions

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has considerably advanced the understanding of peripheral and central neural mechanisms underlying orofacial movements (e.g., chewing, swallowing, digestion, and speech). The principle advantages of fMRI lie in its noninvasive nature, relatively high spatiotemporal resolution, and ability to identify the entire network of brain areas involved in particular tasks. However, there remain substantial and valid criticisms of fMRI based on its spatial and temporal limits. Although further improvements in the existing technology will enhance the scientific value of fMRI, the use of fMRI is in the early stages of translation from the research laboratory to clinical practice. In order to make clinically meaningful contributions, challenging questions must be answered regarding therapeutic applications of fMRI to the dental and craniofacial field.