🦷 Does a PFM Crown Interfere with an MRI Scan? Myth or Fact?

Introduction

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a powerful diagnostic tool that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of internal organs and tissues. But if you have dental restorations—especially PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal) crowns—you might wonder: Will it interfere with my MRI scan? Let’s break the myth and find the facts!

Understanding PFM Crowns

A PFM crown has a metal base covered with tooth-colored porcelain. It’s commonly used in restorative dentistry because of its durability and aesthetics. But the metal content can raise concerns when undergoing scans like MRI.

Myth or Fact?

✅ FACT: Most PFM crowns do NOT significantly interfere with MRI scans.

While it’s true that the metal in PFM crowns can sometimes cause minor artifacts (distortions) in MRI images, especially of the head and neck, they do not pose any safety risk or contraindication for getting an MRI.

What You Should Know

🧲 MRI Safety: Most dental materials, including PFM crowns, are MRI-safe. They are not magnetic and won’t move or heat up during the scan.

📸 Image Distortion: In rare cases, PFM crowns might cause small distortions, but they usually don’t impact diagnostic accuracy unless the scan is focused very close to the mouth or jaw.

🗣️ Always Inform Your Doctor: Let your radiologist know about any dental crowns, braces, or implants. This helps them adjust settings for clearer imaging.

Conclusion

So, does a PFM crown interfere with MRI scans? It’s a myth that it poses a danger. At most, it may cause minor image issues. There's no need to remove or replace your crown for an MRI unless specifically advised.

At Shree Jayam Oral and Dental Clinic, we prioritize not just your smile but your overall health and medical clarity. If you have questions about your dental work and medical procedures, we’re here to guide you!

📍 Shree Jayam Oral and Dental Clinic

Ambattur, Chennai

📞 Phone: 9150990462 / 7550090462