Reviewed By Dr. Jeffery Kesecker, DDS
Reading Time: 6 minutes
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a powerful diagnostic tool used to create detailed images of the internal structures of the human body, from soft tissues to bones.
If you are considering or already have dental implants, you might wonder, “can I get an MRI with dental implants?”
In this blog, we will clarify common concerns about dental implants and MRI and explain how modern dental implant systems interact with magnetic fields, radio waves, and the overall MRI scan process.
Legacy Surgery offers expert oral surgery care in Harrisonburg and Staunton, VA, providing advanced procedures—including dental implants—at both locations.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Dental implants made from non-ferromagnetic, biocompatible materials such as titanium alloys are generally safe during MRI scans, with only minimal image artifacts that do not compromise the overall diagnostic quality. Always inform your healthcare team about your dental implants and any other metal objects in your body to ensure a safe and effective imaging process.
Understanding How MRI Works
An MRI scan uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the internal structures of the body. Here’s a simple breakdown of the process:
- Magnetic fields: MRI machines generate a strong magnetic field that aligns hydrogen atoms in your body.
- Radio waves: These aligned atoms are then hit with radio waves, causing them to emit signals.
- Image formation: These signals are captured and processed by a computer to produce detailed images of soft tissues, bones, and other internal structures.
This method of imaging is particularly valuable because it does not use radiation like x-rays or CT scans.
Instead, it relies on the magnetic properties of your tissues, making it an ideal diagnostic tool for various medical conditions.
Dental Implants: Materials and Safety
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, commonly made from titanium alloys or other biocompatible materials.
They serve as a foundation for dental crowns, bridges, or support for removable dentures. Implants are a popular tooth replacement option because they are durable, functional, and have a natural appearance.
Learn more about dental implants here: Dental Implant FAQs: All Your Questions Answered
Implant Materials and MRI Safety
A primary concern among patients is the potential interaction between the metal components in implants and the powerful magnets in an MRI scanner. Let’s address the key issues:
- Patient safety and magnetic fields
- Safety first: Modern implants are usually made from titanium or other non-magnetic metals that are designed to be safe for MRI scans. Despite the strong magnetic field of the scanner, these biocompatible materials are not attracted to the magnetic forces.
- Misconception debunked: Many people worry that the MRI machine can pull all metal parts in your body. In reality, only ferromagnetic materials—those that contain a high amount of magnetic susceptibility—are affected. Dental implants are manufactured from non-ferromagnetic materials, meaning they are not drawn toward the magnet.
- Impact on MRI image quality
- Image artifacts and distortion: Another common concern is that the metal parts of the implant may interfere with the MRI scan quality, leading to minor image distortion or artifacts from metal restorations.
- Digital imaging considerations: Although it’s true that implants may occasionally result in slight distortions, these artifacts are typically confined to the immediate area around the implant. They usually do not compromise the diagnostic value of the scan, especially when imaging other parts of the head or body.
- Advanced MRI techniques: Modern MRI machines and scanning protocols are designed to minimize these artifacts, ensuring that accurate imaging is achieved even in patients with metal components like dental implants.
- Comparisons with other metal implants
- Other implants and devices: Similar to cochlear implants or joint replacements, dental implants undergo rigorous testing to confirm that they do not interfere with magnetic resonance imaging. The focus is on ensuring that any magnetic field strength generated by the MRI does not cause the implant to heat up or move.
- Non-magnetic materials: For patients with concerns about metal allergies or adverse reactions, it’s important to note that many implants are made with non-ferromagnetic materials. Some even opt for ceramic materials or other non-magnetic metals if they have specific allergies or sensitivities.
What About Other Metal Dental Restorations
Other dental restorations, such as metal crowns, dental bridges, or metal fillings, may also cause minor artifacts on an MRI. However, these do not generally affect the scan’s overall quality.
Additional Safety Considerations
- Heat generation: There is minimal risk of heat generation from the implant during an MRI scan. Modern implant designs ensure that any electrical conductivity or heat produced is well within safe limits.
- Motion of the implant: The risk of the implant moving is extremely low, as the materials used are not attracted to the powerful magnets within the scanner.
- Communication with the healthcare team: Always ensure that you inform your healthcare team about any metal objects in your body before undergoing an MRI scan. This includes not only dental implants but also any other metal components or devices such as joint replacements, cochlear implants, or even metallic nail polish.
Checklist for MRI Patients with Dental Implants
Before heading into your MRI scan, use this checklist to ensure a smooth and safe experience:
Inform your healthcare provider:
- Tell your doctor or MRI technician about your dental implants and any other metal objects (e.g., dental crowns, metal fillings, dental bridges, cochlear implants).
- Provide a detailed list of all metal components you may have in your body.
Review your medical history:
- Discuss any history of allergic reactions to metals or any other related health issues.
- Bring any documentation related to your implant surgery or dental implant systems.
Prepare for the MRI:
- Remove any external metallic items such as jewelry, watches, and clothing with metal components.
- Confirm with the imaging center whether they have protocols in place to handle patients with dental implants and other metal objects.
During the scan:
- Communicate any discomfort or concerns immediately to the medical professionals on site.
- Follow all instructions given by the MRI technicians to ensure your safety.
Post-scan:
- If you have any unusual symptoms post-scan (although highly unlikely), contact your healthcare team for personalized guidance.
Legacy Surgery: Oral Surgeon in Staunton & Harrisonburg, VA
Stay informed, stay safe, and never hesitate to ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your implants and upcoming imaging procedures.
If you have questions regarding dental implants, consult our experienced oral surgeon, Dr. Jeffery Kesecker, DDS, for expert advice.
To book a consultation at our Harrisonburg location, call (540) 437-1230 or visit us at 2071 Pro Pointe Lane, Harrisonburg, VA. To book at our Staunton location, call (540) 213-8750 or visit us at 110 Mactanly Pl C, Staunton, VA.
FAQs about Dental Implants and MRI
Can you get an MRI with a dental implant?
Absolutely. The overwhelming consensus among healthcare providers and oral surgeons is that it is safe to have an MRI scan if you have dental implants.
Do dental implants affect the MRI scan quality?
While it’s true that some dental implants and MRI interactions can create slight distortions or image artifacts, these are generally minimal. The slight distortions usually only affect the area immediately adjacent to the implant, leaving the rest of the scan clear.