If you’re among the 120 million Americans missing at least one permanent tooth, you know firsthand the attention an incomplete smile can draw from strangers. Thankfully, you’re beginning a more confident chapter in your life because you’re ready to invest in dental implants. They closely replicate your natural teeth, so no one will ever know they aren’t real, but will dental implants set off metal detectors? Whether you’re going through airport security or entering a sporting event, here are 3 reasons you don’t need to worry about your smile causing unnecessary negative attention anymore.
1. Metal detectors aren’t looking for titanium.
A metal detector creates a magnetic field around you via a series of pulses. The pulses cause an echo, which allows the detector to identify a reading. As a metal object passes through it, the magnetic field of the machine will cause a magnetic field in the object. This will disrupt the echo the machine is designed to hear.
Although traditional implant posts are made of metal, they are unlikely to set off security screening devices because they are titanium. While all alloys of titanium produce different strengths of magnetic fields, it is extremely uncommon for metal detectors to find their magnetic field.
2. Dental implants are insulated from detection.
A dental implant is unique because it replicates the entire tooth structure, including the root. The titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone. Your bone fuses to it through a process called osseointegration. Not only does this provide unmatched support for your restoration, but it also insulates it. Although replacement hips and orthopedic implants are detected by the machines, the implant is much smaller and surrounded by thick bone, making it more difficult to disrupt the echo of the machine.
3. Dental implants are too small.
If you’ve ever been through a metal detector, you know they can pick up the most random objects, like an aluminum gum wrapper; however, other things can pass by undetected, like a small screw. Although there are various reasons this can occur, the size of the object can play a role. The fact the implant is small, combined with it being insulated and made of titanium makes them more challenging to detect than other metals.
While it’s not likely your new smile will trigger any alarms, security screening devices are improving, which may cause them to be more detectible down the road. In addition, safety procedures are similar from country to country, but some regions have higher technology. They can detect even the smallest amounts of metal. If you’re concerned about setting off any metal detectors, ask your dentist about metal-free implants.
About Dr. Cher Rich
Dr. Rich earned her dental degree at the University of Texas at Houston Dental School. She has gained extensive knowledge and experience in a variety of advanced treatments, including dental implants. No matter if you’re missing one tooth or an entire arch, she can rebuild a beautiful, functional smile. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation for dental implants.