How Long Do Caps on Teeth Last? The Truth About Crowns
October 24, 2025
Many patients worry if their dental implants will interfere with medical scans they might need in the future. If you’re considering dental implants or already have them, you’ve probably wondered: Can you have an MRI with dental implants safely? This concern makes perfect sense, especially when your doctor orders an MRI for medical diagnosis or monitoring.
The reassuring news is that most dental implants are completely safe during MRI scans. Working with an experienced dentist in Aurora ensures you have all the information you need about implant materials and medical compatibility.
Dental implants consist of three main components that work together to replace missing teeth effectively. Understanding these parts helps explain why MRI compatibility varies depending on the materials used.
The implant post, which anchors into your jawbone, is typically made from titanium or zirconia. Titanium has been the gold standard for dental implants for decades because it’s biocompatible, durable, and integrates well with bone tissue. This material is also non-magnetic, which makes it safe for MRI procedures.
The abutment connects the implant post to the crown and is usually made from titanium, zirconia, or sometimes other materials. Meanwhile, the crown itself is typically made from porcelain, ceramic, or other tooth-coloured materials that don’t interfere with magnetic fields.
Your Aurora dentist keeps detailed records of the specific materials used in your implants. This information becomes valuable when you need medical imaging or other procedures throughout your life.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of your body’s internal structures. This technology helps doctors diagnose conditions affecting your brain, spine, joints, and organs.
The concern about dental implants and MRI scans stems from the magnetic nature of the imaging process. However, modern dental implants are specifically designed with MRI compatibility in mind. Titanium implants are completely non-magnetic and pose no safety risk during MRI procedures.
Can you have an MRI with dental implants made from titanium? Absolutely. Millions of patients with titanium implants undergo MRI scans safely every year without complications.
Zirconia implants are also MRI-safe and actually produce even less imaging interference than titanium. Some patients specifically choose zirconia implants for this reason, though both materials are considered excellent options.
The only potential concern involves very old implants that may contain ferromagnetic materials. However, these are extremely rare in modern dentistry, and your dentist in Aurora can verify your implant materials if you have any questions.
While dental implants don’t pose safety risks during MRI scans, they may cause minor image distortions in some cases. These artifacts typically appear as small dark spots or slight blurring around the implant area.
These distortions rarely affect diagnostic quality unless the implant is very close to the area being scanned. MRI technicians are experienced in working around these minor artifacts and can adjust imaging parameters if needed.
If you’re getting an MRI of your head or neck area, mention your dental implants to the technician beforehand. This allows them to optimize the scanning protocol for the clearest possible images.
Most importantly, remember that image quality issues are purely technical and don’t indicate any safety problems. Your medical team can work around these minor artifacts to get the diagnostic information they need.
Before any MRI scan, always inform your medical team about your dental implants. This disclosure helps them prepare appropriately and ensures the safest, most effective imaging process.
Share the following details with your healthcare providers:
Your Aurora dentist can provide a detailed implant summary if requested by your medical team. This documentation helps medical professionals make informed decisions about your care.
Some medical facilities may ask you to sign consent forms acknowledging your implants. This is standard protocol and doesn’t indicate any unusual risk.
Dental implants represent a significant investment in your oral health and quality of life. Choosing an experienced dentist in Aurora who considers long-term compatibility with medical care is essential for your peace of mind.
At Dana Dental, we use only quality, MRI-compatible implant materials. We maintain detailed records of every implant procedure, including specific materials and manufacturer information.
This documentation proves valuable throughout your lifetime when you need medical procedures or imaging. Our team collaborates with medical professionals when patients need specialized care or have questions about implant compatibility.
We also educate patients about implant care, maintenance, and how their implants might affect future medical treatments. This comprehensive approach ensures you feel confident and informed about your dental investment.
Before getting dental implants, discussing MRI compatibility and other medical considerations helps you make informed decisions. Patients with chronic conditions requiring regular imaging can explore their options with confidence.
During your consultation with us, we discuss:
Patients who travel frequently or have complex medical histories particularly benefit from detailed implant documentation. This information travels with you and helps medical professionals anywhere provide safe, effective care.
Q: Will my dental implant heat up during an MRI?
A: No, titanium and zirconia implants don’t heat up during MRI scans. These materials are specifically chosen for their safety and biocompatibility in medical environments.
Q: Will my MRI results be affected by dental implants?
A: Minor image distortions may occur near the implant, but these rarely affect diagnostic accuracy. MRI technicians are trained to work around these artifacts when necessary.
What if I have multiple dental implants? Multiple implants don’t increase safety risks during MRI scans. Each implant is independent, and having several doesn’t change their MRI compatibility.
Do I need to remove my dental crown before an MRI? No, dental crowns attached to implants cannot be removed for MRI scans. Fortunately, they’re designed to be permanently fixed and MRI-compatible.
Q: Can you have an MRI with dental implants placed recently?
A: Yes, even newly placed implants are MRI-safe once the initial healing period is complete. However, inform your medical team about recent dental surgery so they can plan accordingly.
Q: Do dental implants affect other types of medical scans?
A: Dental implants don’t interfere with X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds. In fact, they’re clearly visible on dental X-rays, which helps your dentist monitor their health over time.
Q: What if my doctor is concerned about my dental implants?
A: Your dentist in Aurora can provide detailed documentation about your implant materials and specifications. Most medical professionals are familiar with modern implant safety standards.
Whether you can have an MRI with dental implants safely depends partly on the quality of materials and documentation your dental team provides. Choosing a reputable practice ensures you receive implants that meet the highest safety standards.
Here, we prioritize patient education and long-term care relationships. Our team takes time to explain implant materials, maintenance requirements, and how your dental work integrates with your overall healthcare needs.
We believe informed patients make better decisions about their oral health. That’s why we provide comprehensive consultations that address not just immediate dental needs, but also long-term considerations like medical imaging compatibility.
Ready to learn more about dental implants or need documentation for an upcoming medical procedure? Schedule a consultation with our experienced team today. As your trusted Aurora dentist, we’re committed to providing comprehensive care that supports your oral health and overall well-being throughout your lifetime. Contact us now to discuss how dental implants can transform your smile while maintaining compatibility with all your healthcare needs.
You can also visit our dentistry resource centre for more information about dental implants and oral health topics.
