Why you don’t need to worry about your implant and an MRI
Suppose your doctor recommends an MRI, but you have a dental implant—and part of it is made of metal. Should you be concerned that it might interfere with the test?
Good news: You can safely keep your appointment. Studies show the risk of interference is extremely low, and your dental implant is not a reason to skip this important imaging exam.
What is an MRI?
MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. It’s a non-invasive test that uses radio waves, a strong magnetic field, and sometimes a contrast dye to capture detailed images of tissues, organs, and bones. Doctors use MRIs to diagnose everything from tumors to joint injuries—and unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRIs don’t expose you to radiation.
Yes, MRIs and dental implants can go together!
Dental implants are typically made of titanium, zirconia, or polymeric materials—all of which are non-ferromagnetic. This means they do not react to magnets and won’t be pulled or affected by the MRI machine’s magnetic field.
Even though dental implants contain metal, their materials are specifically chosen for biocompatibility and safety, both inside your body and in medical imaging settings. One study even confirmed that titanium implants posed no risk to patients undergoing MRI procedures.
What about image distortion?
While your implant won’t harm you during an MRI, minor image distortion near the mouth or jaw area may occur. However, this is rarely a problem unless the MRI specifically targets that region.
Tip: Always let your doctor or MRI technician know about any dental implants, bridges, crowns, or fillings before your scan. Transparency ensures the most accurate imaging and helps the technician adjust settings if necessary.
Schedule an appointment with Espire Dental today!
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