Can You Have An MRI With A Permanent Retainer?
As a child with crooked teeth, I yearned for the day I could have braces. And when I finally got them, I was thrilled. I wore them for two years, and after they were removed, I was even more delighted with my beautiful, straight teeth. To keep my teeth in their new position, my dentist recommended I get a permanent retainer. I didn’t have many qualms about getting one; it seemed like a small price to pay for a lifetime of perfect teeth. I never thought much about my retainer beyond the initial discomfort, until I had to have an MRI.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the body’s organs and tissues. I assumed an MRI would be no problem for me, until the technician asked if I had any metal in my body. I mentioned my permanent retainer, and her face fell. She explained that the metal in the retainer could interfere with the magnetic field of the MRI machine, potentially causing inaccurate images or even injury.
MRI Safety and Permanent Retainers
Permanent retainers are typically made of stainless steel, which is not magnetic. However, some retainers may contain small amounts of other metals, such as titanium or nickel, that are magnetic.
The strength of the magnetic field in an MRI machine can vary, but most MRI machines use a magnetic field strength of 1.5 Tesla (T). This strength is strong enough to attract even small amounts of metal. If a permanent retainer contains magnetic metal, it could be pulled towards the MRI magnet, causing pain or injury to the patient.
What to Do If You Have a Permanent Retainer and Need an MRI
If you have a permanent retainer and need an MRI, there are a few things you can do to ensure your safety:
- Tell your doctor and the MRI technician that you have a permanent retainer.
- Ask your doctor if it is safe to remove your retainer for the MRI. If it is safe to remove your retainer, you will need to wear a temporary retainer or a bite guard to keep your teeth in place during the MRI.
- If it is not safe to remove your retainer, the MRI technician may be able to use a special technique to minimize the risk of injury. This technique involves placing a pad or shield over the retainer to reduce the magnetic pull.
Tips for Getting an MRI with a Permanent Retainer
Here are a few tips for getting an MRI with a permanent retainer:
- Schedule your MRI at a facility that has experience with MRI safety for patients with permanent retainers.
- Bring a copy of your dental records to your MRI appointment.
- Be prepared to answer questions about your permanent retainer, including the type of metal it is made of.
- Follow the instructions of the MRI technician carefully.
FAQs About MRIs and Permanent Retainers
Q: Can I have an MRI with a permanent retainer?
A: Yes, you can have an MRI with a permanent retainer, but it is important to tell your doctor and the MRI technician that you have a permanent retainer. The MRI technician may need to use a special technique to minimize the risk of injury.
Q: What are the risks of having an MRI with a permanent retainer?
A: The risks of having an MRI with a permanent retainer are rare, but they include pain, injury, and inaccurate MRI images.
Q: What should I do if I have a permanent retainer and need an MRI?
A: If you have a permanent retainer and need an MRI, you should tell your doctor and the MRI technician. The MRI technician may be able to use a special technique to minimize the risk of injury.
Conclusion
If you have a permanent retainer and need an MRI, it is important to talk to your doctor and the MRI technician. With proper planning and precautions, you can safely have an MRI even if you have a permanent retainer.
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