Can MRI be done with orthodontics?

Orthodontics is known as an effective method to correct dental abnormalities and improve smile beauty; But metal equipment and **orthodontics in MRI** may cause concerns about this. Can MRI be done with orthodontics? This question may arise for many people who use orthodontic brackets and wires and need to have a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) done. The presence of metals creates problems whenever magnetic fields are involved. In dentistry, this device is placed in the mouth in various forms such as amalgam restorations, fixed prostheses, implants, orthodontic brackets and fixed retainers. In the continuation of this article, we will answer this question from the website **Dr. **How does MRI work?** Doing an MRI while the patient has orthodontics is not dangerous in most cases; But there are some challenges and possibilities that can be reduced by consulting a doctor and orthodontist and taking appropriate measures. For this purpose, you can count on the expert advice of Dr. Najmeh Tadredaranjad, an orthodontic specialist in Mashhad. In general, in order to reduce the risks associated with MRI in patients with orthodontics, various measures can be used, such as consulting with the medical treatment team before performing MRI, using non-metallic equipment in orthodontics, and fully informing the MRI technician. In the MRI process, the patient is placed inside a large, tube-shaped device. This device creates a strong magnetic field that changes the direction of hydrogen ions in the body. Then the radio waves reach the body. Certain receivers receive these signals and convert them into images. The resulting photos allow doctors to see detailed details of the internal structures of the body and diagnose existing problems. What effect will MRI have on orthodontics? The effect of the relatively strong magnetic field of MRI on metals causes things like their overheating. This change in temperature may lead to tooth pain, the loosening of the brackets, or even the removal of the fixed retainer and cause minor problems. Also, it is possible that some patients feel pain during MRI due to the presence of **orthodontic jewelry** and metal wires in the mouth. This problem shows itself especially when the device is close to the mouth and jaw. In these cases, continuous communication with the MRI technician is necessary to inform about any discomfort. ### How to prevent possible injuries? In order to avoid the effects of **MRI and orthodontics**, newer techniques and devices should be used; But there is a simple and effective way to reduce these risks, and that is to use clean paper towels or wet gauze. With this, you have placed a thin layer of tissue paper or gauze dressing over the orthodontic tooth attachment or orthodontic retainer. These materials are used as thermal insulation and prevent excessive heating and changing the dimensions of metal objects in orthodontic devices. What effect will orthodontics have on MRI? Any metal object in the mouth may affect the MRI images. This effect is usually seen as distortion and noise in images. The larger the metal object is and the closer it is to the imaging location, the greater the noise. **Read more" Getting to know the advantages and disadvantages of using an orthodontic pacifier** In some cases, this problem reaches the extent that it is recommended to remove some components or orthodontic connections; But the problem is that removing some metals may not be practical. In such a situation, the patient should draw a clear aligner on his teeth to avoid expensive procedures. Among the other effects that dental orthodontics and MRI have on each other, the following can be mentioned: - Creating very small errors in imaging - Reducing the quality and accuracy of diagnosis Finally, professionals decide to make appropriate decisions based on the individual's diagnosis and health status. In cases where the diagnosis using MRI is critical and the patient's health is at risk, measures that may affect the image should be taken in order to preserve immediate health. The effect of dental fittings on MRI images Dental metal fittings such as bridges, implants, or orthodontic brackets may affect MRI images. These metals disrupt the magnetic field and cause artifacts (false images or noise) in their surrounding areas. These artifacts may make it difficult to accurately diagnose lesions, tumors, or inflammation, especially in the head and neck region. The severity of this disorder varies depending on the type and material of the metal used. Using non-magnetic materials or informing the doctor before MRI can help reduce these effects. Is it possible not to remove the fixed bracket and retainer for MRI? In many cases, there is no need to remove fixed brackets or retainers before an MRI, especially if the image is taken from an area other than the head and neck. However, if the MRI is of the jaw, face, or brain, the metal in these devices may cause artifacts and reduce image quality. The type of metal is also important; Some special alloys have less interference. Before the imaging, it is better to inform the doctor or technician about the presence of the bracket or retainer so that they can decide on the need to remove it. #### Summary It is possible to use MRI during orthodontics and this is one of the important features of this technology. Due to the use of orthodontic wires, brackets and bands that use non-ferrous metals such as stainless steel alloy, cobalt chrome and titanium in their structure, MRI imaging has no effect on orthodontics. Especially if the MRI imaging involves other areas of the body outside of the head, brain, or mouth. This situation suggests that MRI is generally less invasive for people using orthodontics and can be easily performed. By observing safety measures and proper coordination with the treatment team, MRI is performed safely and effectively in orthodontic patients. If it is not possible to obtain the desired image even with the above techniques, you may have to remove the metal components. Of course, it should be noted that removing and reinstalling them will have high costs. ###