Whether you are visiting family, travelling for work, or finally going to your dream destination, the part you are probably least looking forward to is going through airport security. Usually, you make it through the line without issues, but with your new dental implants, who knows what will happen this time? The giant metal detector is the only thing that is standing between you and your gate, and there is titanium in your mouth. Continue reading to learn why your dental implants shouldn’t be a concern during your excursion.
How Do Metal Detectors Work?
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) metal detectors work by creating a magnetic field around you in a series of pulses. This creates a natural echo that the detector can turn into a reading. When a metal object passes through the metal detector, the magnetic field of the detector produces a magnetic field in the object, causing the echo to become disrupted. This is what triggers the alarm to go off.
Will Dental implants Set Off Metal Detectors?
Dental implants are crafted from titanium, which is not a metal that is magnetic. This means that they don’t have the tendency to set off metal detectors. However, if you have another metal on your person, like steel, iron, nickel, or cobalt-chromium, the metal detector is likely to go off. If it is just your dental implants that you are worried about, you should be able to go through the line without having any issues.
You should be aware that the security regulations of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security aren’t necessarily implemented in every country throughout the world. If you are traveling internationally, you should give yourself plenty of time to go through security. Depending on where you are, they may use different technology that is designed to pick up on even the smallest amount of metal. Just remember that you aren’t the first person to travel with dental implants. After an explanation, you should be back on your way to your destination.
You don’t need to stress about your upcoming trip due to your dental implants. There are all sorts of people who love to travel, including those who have replaced their missing teeth. You will more than likely be able to talk through airport security without any dental implant-replated inconveniences.
About the Author
Dr. James Kirby earned his dental doctorate from the University of Tennessee in Memphis. Since then, he has been committed to continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. He partners with the best local dental implant specialists so that patients get the best possible treatment. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment at his office in Nashville, visit his website or call (615) 327-2123.