Can You Have an MRI With Dental Braces?

Yes, you can usually have an MRI while wearing dental braces. The brackets and wires generally stay securely in place inside the MRI scanner, so having braces does not automatically prevent you from getting the scan.

However, the metal components can sometimes interfere with image quality, particularly when the MRI is focused on your head, jaw, or neck.

The type of braces you have and the part of your body being scanned can make a difference.

In this guide, we’ll explain how braces interact with MRI machines, which types of orthodontic appliances may cause the most image distortion, what you can expect during the scan, and what you should tell your radiologist before the appointment.

Key Takeaways

• MRI scans are generally safe for patients with braces.
• Metal brackets and wires do not fly out of your mouth, but they can sometimes distort images.
• The impact depends on the type of braces and the area of the body being scanned.
• If your scan focuses on the head or neck, braces may make it harder to get clear images.
• Always tell your radiologist and dentist about your braces before scheduling imaging.

First, What Exactly Is an MRI?

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a medical test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, it doesn’t use radiation. Instead, it relies on magnetic fields and signals from your body’s tissues to generate images.

Because of the strong magnets involved, patients with certain implants, like pacemakers, cochlear implants, or some metal clips, need special precautions. That’s where the worry about braces comes in. Braces contain metal, so it’s natural to wonder if they’ll cause problems in the scanner.

Braces and MRI: What’s the Real Concern?

Here’s the good news: braces are not ripped off your teeth when you step into an MRI machine. Orthodontic materials are usually made from stainless steel or titanium alloys that are securely bonded to your teeth. They don’t leap out of your mouth or heat up dramatically.

The real concern is image distortion. Metal can interfere with the magnetic signals, especially if the scan is of your head, face, or neck. In those cases, braces can cause blurry spots, streaks, or areas that are hard for doctors to interpret. For scans of other body parts, like your knee, spine, or abdomen, braces usually don’t matter at all.

Types of Braces and Their Compatibility

Not all braces are created equal, and the type of orthodontic system you have can influence how much they interfere with MRI scans.

• Traditional Metal Braces: Most likely to distort images of the head and neck because of their stainless steel components.
• Ceramic Braces: These are less likely to cause distortion, but the wires (if metal) can still create artifacts in images.
• Self-Ligating Braces: Similar to traditional braces; the metal is secure but can cause signal interference in certain scans.
• Lingual Braces: Placed behind the teeth, but still metal, so they can affect MRI images in much the same way as front-facing braces.
• Clear Aligners (like Invisalign): Generally MRI-friendly since they contain no metal, though attachments may still cause minor issues.

What Patients Actually Experience During MRI With Braces

Patients often imagine sparks, shocks, or braces tugging at their teeth inside the MRI machine. Thankfully, none of that happens. What you might notice:

• A little extra warmth around your mouth, though this is rare and mild.
• Slight discomfort if you already have sore teeth, since you’ll need to lie still for a while.
• The sound of the machine’s loud knocking and buzzing (which is the same for everyone, with or without braces).

The real impact shows up in the images: scans of your head, jaw, or sinuses may look blurry in spots. Radiologists can often adjust settings to improve quality, but sometimes braces make it impossible to get clear results.

When Braces Interfere With MRI Results

Not every MRI is affected by braces. The degree of interference depends on two main factors:

The Area Being Scanned

Areas being scanned include:

Head and Neck: Braces can create significant artifacts that obscure details. If you need an MRI for jaw pain, sinuses, or brain imaging, your orthodontics may complicate the picture.

Other Areas (spine, knee, abdomen, chest): Braces rarely affect these scans. The metal is too far from the imaging site to matter.

The Type of Braces

Ceramic or titanium-based systems cause fewer artifacts than traditional stainless steel.

In rare cases, if the MRI is urgent and clear images of the head are essential, your doctor and orthodontist may recommend temporarily removing braces before the scan. This is uncommon, but it highlights the importance of communication between your care team.

What to Do Before an MRI If You Have Braces

If you have braces and are scheduled for an MRI, here’s how to prepare:

• Tell Your Radiologist: Always disclose your orthodontics so the team can adjust settings or plan accordingly.
• Bring Details: If possible, know what type of braces you have (metal, ceramic, titanium, etc.).
• Ask Your Dentist or Orthodontist: They can provide details about your orthodontic appliances for your radiologist. If you’re also looking for a new provider, our guide on how to tell if a dentist is good or not can help you understand what to look for when choosing a dentist.
• Follow Instructions Carefully: You may be asked to remove removable appliances (like retainers or aligners) before the scan.
• Stay Relaxed: Remember, the main issue is image quality, not your safety.

Myths vs. Reality

Myth 1: Braces will be pulled off by the magnet.
Reality: They are securely bonded and do not move.

Myth 2: Braces heat up dangerously in the scanner.
Reality: If any warmth occurs, it is mild and temporary.

Myth 3: You can’t get an MRI at all if you have braces.
Reality: Most MRIs are still possible, especially if they’re not focused on the head or neck.

Myth 4: Clear aligners are always 100% safe in MRI.
Reality: While aligners don’t have metal, attachments may cause small artifacts. Always inform your radiologist.

Safe, Informed Dental Care at 97 Smiles

At 97 Smiles, we know your health doesn’t stop at your smile. Questions about braces, imaging, or medical care are part of the bigger picture, and we’re here to help. Whether you’re considering braces, already in treatment, or just want guidance on what to expect, our team is ready to give you the answers you need.

Call or text, or book online for a consultation. We’ll help you keep your smile healthy, and keep you confident through every medical step along the way.

Schedule an appointment

Conclusion

Having braces doesn’t mean you can’t get an MRI. While the magnets are powerful, your orthodontic appliances are safe inside the machine. The main concern is not your safety, but whether the images, especially of the head or neck, come out clear enough for doctors to interpret. For most body scans, braces don’t matter at all.

The bottom line? Don’t lose sleep over your upcoming MRI. Just make sure your medical team knows about your braces, and trust them to take the right steps. And if you have questions about your orthodontic treatment or dental health along the way, 97 Smiles is here to guide you. Call or text us today to get expert care for your smile and peace of mind for your health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my braces move during an MRI?

No. They are securely attached and do not shift or fly off.

Can I get a brain MRI if I have braces?

Yes, but image clarity may be affected. Your doctor will decide if the images are usable.

Do ceramic braces cause fewer problems than metal braces in MRI?

Yes, ceramic and titanium components generally create less distortion.

What if I need an emergency MRI while I have braces?

The scan can still be performed. In rare cases, orthodontists may remove braces if the scan requires absolute clarity.

Are clear aligners like Invisalign MRI-safe?

Yes, they can usually be removed before the scan to avoid any interference.