Can I undergo an MRI scan with porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crowns?
I have several porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crowns. Recently my doctor recommended an MRI scan. Is it really safe for me to undergo this examination? Could there be any risks or effects on the accuracy of the results?
Doctor's answer (1)
Whether a person with porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) dental crowns can undergo an MRI scan depends on the materials used in the crowns. If the crown is made of non-magnetic alloy, an MRI is generally acceptable. However, if the crown contains magnetic alloy, it is usually not recommended.
If the metal substructure of the PFM crown is composed of non-magnetic alloys, such as noble metals like gold, platinum, or palladium, these crowns generally do not significantly affect image quality or pose additional safety risks during an MRI scan.
However, if the metal framework contains strongly magnetic metals, such as nickel-chromium alloys, interference during the MRI scan may occur. Such crowns can cause image distortion, artifacts, and in extreme cases, movement or heating of the metal components in the strong magnetic field, potentially causing harm to the patient. Although this risk is relatively low, it should still be taken seriously.
Patients with PFM crowns should consult with a qualified physician before undergoing an MRI scan to evaluate the potential impact of their dental crowns on the MRI examination and determine whether any special precautions are necessary.
