If you’re travelling this summer, heading to a concert, or dropping by your local courthouse for the dreaded jury duty, you may be wondering what will happen when you step through the metal detector with your new dental implants. Here’s why some alloys may set off alarms at some point, and others won’t, as well as what you should do if it happens.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are the world’s only permanent tooth replacement option. Comprised of an implant post, abutment, and prosthetic, these restorations are surgically inserted into the jawbone. With time, the bone will heal around the implant, which serves as a tooth root, allowing the patient to use it to enjoy a full diet. Because dental implants are permanent, they never need to be removed for cleaning or soaking, and with proper care and use should never need to be replaced, either!
What are Dental Implants Made Of?
Dental implants are available in several different materials depending on the needs and preferences of the patient. In most cases, titanium is used because it is strong, long lasting, and will successfully fuse with the jawbone via the process of osseointegration. They are also available in zirconia, which is a durable porcelain that contains no metal. Patients may prefer this option if they have allergies or sensitivities that rule out titanium, or if they would like a more natural looking option, as these prosthetics are naturally white.
Will My Dental Implants Set Off Metal Detectors?
Metal detectors work by creating an electromagnetic field which is emitted in pulses. Every pulse creates a return echo, which the detector then recognizes as nothing to worry about. However, if a metal object disrupts that echo system, it creates its own magnetic field, and this interruption sets off an alarm.
If you have zirconia implants, they will not set off a metal detector. However, there is always a slight chance titanium might. The good news is that because most of these machines are looking for much larger volumes of metal, your implants should not be enough to trigger them.
What to Do if Your Dental Implants Set Off Alarms
Although it’s very unlikely your dental implants will set off metal detectors, if they do, rest assured that most security teams have processes in place to handle these situations without incident. You may also want to notify the guard before you step through the machine so they’re aware that you might set off the alarm, but again, the chances of this happening are very low. The important thing to remember is if it does occur, stay calm, explain the situation, and be patient with the agent or officer assisting you and you should be back on your way in no time!
About Dr. Steele
Dr. Darrell Steele earned his dental degree at Baylor College of Dentistry. He is proudly the first oral surgeon in the DFW area to have used the Yomi Dental Implant Robot for his dental implant procedures, allowing for a safer, more comfortable, and more predictable procedure. To schedule a consultation for dental implants, visit our website or call us today at 972-315-3355.
