With COVID-19 dwindling and the summer season underway, millions of people have plans to travel sometime within the next few months. Are you among them? If your future involves getting on an airplane, it is understandable if you are a little nervous about going through airport security, especially if you have dental implants. Will your dental implants set off the metal detectors? In most cases, the answer is no.
Titanium Does Not Set Off Most Metal Detectors
The metal detectors used by TSA create an electromagnetic field, which reacts with magnetic metals and sets off an alarm. Fortunately, most modern dental implants are primarily made out of titanium, with small amounts of other metals mixed in. Titanium is non-magnetic, so it very rarely sets off standard metal detectors.
What About Zirconia Dental Implants?
Of course, titanium is not the only material used for dental implants. Zirconia implants are growing in popularity. Zirconia contains some metal atoms, but it is not classed as a metal. It does not usually set off metal detectors.
Dental Implants and Full-Body Scanners
Many airports in the U.S. now use full-body scanners instead of metal detectors. These scanners may work in one of two ways. Millimeter wave scanners work by sending out radio waves, which bounce off of you and allow the machine to produce images. Backscatter machines use low-level radiation, similar to the radiation that makes X-Rays possible.
Both types of scanners may detect your dental implants. However, the TSA agent reviewing the images is unlikely to flag you. Millions of people have metal in their mouths, and it is not usually a reason for extensive security screening.
A Note About International Travel
The security standards at airports around the world can vary greatly. Some may have sophisticated metal detectors that will go off when they sense titanium dental implants. In most cases, simply explaining the nature of the implants and cooperating with any further screening that is recommended will be all that is necessary to finish getting through security.
Traveling with Dental Implants Is Convenient
Dental implants are unlikely to interfere with your travel plans. In fact, they might even make your trips more enjoyable. In many ways, they are just like natural teeth; you can even brush and floss them using standard techniques. That makes them easier to travel with than other tooth replacement options, such as dentures, which would require you to pack your cleaning solution and other accessories. Plus, because dental implants are so sturdy, they can enable you to explore exotic cuisines without worrying about whether you will be able to chew them comfortably.
Are you ready to learn more about dental implants in Mankato and how they may benefit you? Schedule an appointment with a trustworthy dentist to find answers to all of your questions about this remarkable treatment.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. James Kalina is a highly accomplished dentist in Mankato. He partners with local specialists to provide comprehensive dental implant services. If you are curious about your tooth replacement options, he would be pleased to talk with you. Contact our office at 507-625-2021.
