Dental implants are permanent fixtures much like most crowns and fillings. Since there's a good chance you'll need x-rays, MRIs, and other imaging tests in the future, these dental devices are designed with safety in mind. Talking to the MRI technician about your existing implants and other dental devices made with metal is the best way to verify you're ready for a safe and comfortable testing experience.
Dependent on Ferromagnetic Content
A measurement known as the ferromagnetic content of a metal is what determines whether it is compatible with MRI imaging or not. With large magnets responsible for producing the images generated with MRI imaging, metals with a high enough iron content will react to the magnetic fields.
Dental implants are generally made with titanium, which is a non-ferromagnetic metal and therefore is usually compatible with an MRI machine. However, the exact alloy content of the titanium can vary, so you should check with the manufacturer to make sure the post and screw are not magnetic and have been tested for reactivity to imaging tests.
Generally Safe for Imaging
Aside from titanium, zirconium and porcelain are also commonly used to complete the rest of the dental implant. These materials are also safe for wearing during imaging due to their non-reactivity to magnetic forces. However, the very first dental implants included some steel content that can react to MRI machines, so make sure you have your implants tested by a dentist if there's any question about their content before your imaging appointment.
Information from the Manufacturer
When you have your specific dental implants installed, request the manufacturer's information from your dentist. Keeping a card on hand with the exact model number and metallic content of your implant makes it easy to communicate the details to your MRI technician. They can double check with the manufacturer to verify that your dental appliances won't react with the magnets.
Focus of Imaging
The part of the body being imaged also determines the amount of risk for damage to dental appliances with ferromagnetic content. For example, MRI scans that focus on the lower body are unlikely to cause issues with dental implants regardless of the material used to construct them.
When the scan area involves the head, neck, and brain, implants with a magnetic alloy content may need to be removed before the imaging. Most modern implants are free from these alloys and won't be an issue regardless of where the MRI is performed on your body. For more information, speak with a dentist.
Share24 March 2019
Halloween is a holiday that my children love, and telling them they can't go door-to-door collecting candy would break their hearts. This led me to allowing them to collect candy on the holiday, then rationing it out to them every day instead of letting them gobble it up in just a few days. I always thought this was better for them, but my dentist told me this could be the reason why their February dental check-ups were always their worst ones. Daily candy consumption was taking a toll on their teeth. I started a new tradition of letting them indulge for two days, then giving them the option to swap the rest with me in exchange for a new toy. They never pass on the opportunity for a new toy. I created this blog to encourage other parents find similar tactics to keep their children's teeth healthy after Halloween.