It is not uncommon for the average adult to have at least one filling. In fact, most people have dealt with cavities throughout life, making cavity fillings the most common dental treatment performed by dentists across the globe. Patients can choose between different types of material – such as composite or metal – to be placed in the hollowed-out cavity. So, do dental fillings affect MRIs?
Do Dental Fillings Affect MRIs?
Despite the commonality of this procedure, many patients still have a lot of questions about it. Our dentists often hear questions regarding metal dental fillings in Highland Park. Does the metal wear out? Will they need to be replaced? And, most importantly, do dental fillings affect MRIs? Keep reading to learn more about how metal fillings might interact with magnetic resonance imaging machines and if you should be concerned about this possible complication.
Metal and MRIs
Why is there so much concern over metal and MRIs in the first place? MRI machines are essentially big, powerful magnets. When they spin, they are strong enough to pull any metal object in the room towards it. This is why metal is prohibited in MRI rooms; even something as small as a paper clip can be hurled across the room and present a possible danger to anyone in the way. Metal can also be heated up by the magnetic machine, causing severe burns if it touches the skin.
Before you get an MRI, the doctor will ensure that all metal is removed from your body and from the room. If you are wearing jewelry, for example, you will have to take it off before getting into the machine. Since no metal at all is allowed, wouldn’t it make sense that metal fillings are a no-go for MRI procedures?
You Can Have Metal Fillings and Get an MRI!
It is understandable why you might be concerned about getting an MRI if you have gold or silver dental fillings. However, the type of metal used for dental fillings is quite different than metals used in other medical procedures and devices. MRI magnets don’t attract every type of metal, so they won’t attract any type of metal that isn’t ferromagnetic. You only need to be concerned with things like nickel, iron, and cobalt. Fillings are usually made of copper, tin, silver, and mercury, which are not affected at all by the MRI magnets. It is very easy to get an MRI with metal dental fillings!
Other Dental Risks with Metal and MRIs
You may not have to worry about the metal in your mouth interfering with how the magnet works, but you do have to worry about how your fillings affect the overall image taken by the machine. Unfortunately, metal in the body can show up on the MRI image as an “artifact,” which distorts or blocks important parts of the picture. This may require a repeated MRI session until a clear image is taken.
Avoid Metal Complications
You can avoid these types of risks and complications altogether when you invest in non-metal dental fillings at the office of your local experts. Many dental devices are traditionally constructed out of metal. But you can now get things like crowns, bridges, and fillings made out of composite and porcelain materials. This not only makes your teeth look and feel more natural, but it prevents the risk of obstruction when you have to get an MRI scan done.
Find Advanced Dental Solutions for a Healthier and Happier You!
Almost everyone deals with cavities, which is why there are now more options than ever when it comes to the material of your fillings. You can avoid metal fillings when you take a look at our state-of-the-art treatment options at East Highland Dental Arts. Invest in the best cosmetic dentistry in Highland Park and enjoy a happy and healthy smile for years to come!