Many people with implants or crowns worry that they will cause trouble during an MRI or at a security gate. In most cases there is nothing to worry about, but you should speak up at the right time.
- Implant posts are usually made of titanium and do not usually react strongly to a magnetic field, but the decision to scan is made by the doctor.
- Metal in the mouth can distort the image near the teeth, so tell staff before the scan.
- A small amount of metal usually does not trigger airport detectors, though some large metal frameworks might.
- Always tell the doctor and radiographer about implants, crowns and dentures when having an MRI.
Many people who have had an implant or crown ask themselves whether they can still have a magnetic resonance scan, or whether they will set off an alarm at an airport gate. These worries are quite common and can be answered as follows.
Can people with implants or crowns have an MRI?
Implant posts are usually made from titanium, and most dental materials such as porcelain, resin and titanium do not usually react strongly to a magnetic field. However, the decision to scan is made by the ordering doctor and the radiographer, based on the type of material and the specific structures in your mouth. Some materials are magnetic, such as certain magnets attached to dentures or old metal frameworks, and may need to be removed first.
Does it affect the image?
Metal in the mouth can cause distortion in the image near the teeth and jaw. If the scan covers the head and neck close to the mouth, you should tell the staff beforehand so that the radiographer and the doctor reading the images can interpret the results accurately.
Will you set off a security gate at the airport?
The small amount of metal in teeth, such as an implant post or a crown, is usually not enough to trigger a metal detector at the gate. However, some bridges or large metal frameworks might. If you are asked, simply explain calmly that you have an implant or crowns.
What should you prepare?
- Keep information about the type of material and the date of treatment from your clinic.
- For an MRI, tell the doctor and the radiographer clearly that you have an implant, crowns, a denture or a metal framework in your mouth.
- If it is a removable denture, take it out before entering the scan room if asked.
- Do not assume you cannot be scanned. Ask your doctor for guidance.
See also what to know about dental implants and how to care for porcelain crowns so they last.
When should you visit Ky Hoa Dental Clinic?
Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. If you need to know what material is in your mouth before a scan, walk in during opening hours, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times first and to get help with information.
Frequently asked questions
Can people with dental implants have an MRI?
Usually there is no major problem because implant posts are usually made of titanium, but the decision is made by the ordering doctor and the radiographer. You need to tell them clearly what materials are in your mouth.
Do crowns or implants set off airport metal detectors?
A small amount of metal is usually not enough to trigger them, but some bridges or large metal frameworks might. If asked, explain calmly.
What should I tell staff when having an MRI with crowns or implants?
Tell the doctor and the radiographer about any implant, crowns, denture or metal framework in your mouth.