Yes: titanium dental implants are fully compatible with MRI scans. Titanium is not ferromagnetic, so the implants do not move, do not heat up dangerously and do not get pulled by the magnet: you can have an MRI scan with complete normality.
Many patients have doubts about whether dental implants are compatible with an MRI, since it is a device that obtains images of the inside of the body through very powerful magnets. With some materials (iron, certain steels) those magnets can attract metal objects such as hairpins, clips or piercings, and that is where the fear comes from: the implant is metal too.
The difference is the material: dental implants are made of titanium, which is not attracted by the magnet and does not distort the images obtained. It is still a good idea to tell the radiographer that you have implants before the scan, as with any medical device.
Advantages of titanium implants
High biocompatibility
Titanium implants have a high biocompatibility, which means that the risk of rejection is minimal.
Corrosion resistant
The material of the implant is highly resistant to any type of corrosion.
Easy osseointegration
Titanium also offers excellent osseointegration, that is, a good union between the implant and the jaw bone, without causing problems in the bone regeneration process (osteogenesis).
High durability and resistance
Titanium is very resistant, withstands high pressure and therefore has a long service life: it is the best choice for a dental implant.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have an MRI scan if I wear dental implants?
Yes. Titanium implants are safe inside the magnetic field: they do not move or heat up. Simply inform the radiology team beforehand, as you would with any implanted device.
Will my implants distort the MRI images?
Titanium produces no significant distortion. At most, a small local artifact may appear right around the mouth area, which the radiologist knows how to interpret; the rest of the scan is not affected.
