Many patients who undergo MRI tests have concerns about their dental implants affecting the procedure. Luckily, dental implants do not affect MRIs and vice-versa.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are replacement teeth that are made from titanium “roots” and dental crowns. The roots are implanted directly into the jawbone, so the crowns are long-lasting and look and feel like natural teeth. Implants have many benefits over other methods, including jawbone and facial structure support, gum protection, easy maintenance, and improved self-confidence.
What is an MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging machines, better known as MRIs, create images of organs and soft tissues so doctors can check for tumors, injuries, heart damage, or brain damage. These machines make these internal images by creating a strong magnetic field that can penetrate soft tissues and is read by a computer program. MRIs aren’t invasive and, unlike CAT scans, they don’t expose patients to radiation.
How Do MRIs Interact with Dental Implants?
MRIs are, in the simplest terms, powerful magnets and can therefore interact with certain metals. In fact, they can move objects like wheelchairs and oxygen tanks and have even been known to pull out implanted medical devices.
Naturally, patients with dental implants often have concerns about an MRI impacting their implant. But they have nothing to worry about. The metals used to make dental implants are not magnetic, so they will not be impacted in any way by an MRI machine. However, you should still tell your doctor about your dental implants, braces, fillings, or any other medical device as they can interfere with the imaging.
A Worry-Free Investment in Your Smile
Dental implant and MRI technologies are only getting better, so you have nothing to lose by investing in your smile. It’s important to replace any missing teeth as soon as you can, even if you might need an MRI in the future. Missing teeth can lead to a range of serious health problems like teeth shifting, gum disease, tooth decay, TMJ or TMD, and trouble eating or speaking.
Dental Implants at Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry
Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry are here to help if you’re interested in replacing missing teeth with dental implants in Huntington, Long Island. We offer a range of dental implant procedures, including the innovative All On 4 and All On 6 methods so that you can take back your oral health and your confident smile.
Our strict COVID-19 safety precautions, including hospital-grade disinfecting, expert-recommended sterilization, and strict mask policies, allow us to remain open while keeping our patients and staff safe. Contact us today to schedule a one-on-one consultation with Long Island dentists to learn more about dental implants.
