Things To Know About Dental Implants And Airport Security

Flying with dental implants can be intimidating. In the age of increased security, travelers need to know how to stay compliant and safe while also ensuring their implants are not damaged or removed during their travels. Let’s break down what you need to know about this issue. 

What Are Dental Implants? 

The tooth loss may be replaced permanently with dental implants. They are made from titanium screws surgically implanted into the jawbone and topped with a porcelain crown that looks just like a real tooth. They provide a secure and permanent solution for tooth loss without worrying about dentures slipping out of place or causing discomfort. 

Are Dental Implants Considered A Risk At Airports? 

Dental implants are not considered a risk at airports and should not present any issues when going through airport security. However, due to the metal components in dental implants, they can set off metal detectors in the airport. If this happens, it is important to inform security personnel that you have an implant before they start patting you down or searching your bags further. Usually, a quick explanation is all needed to get through security without any issues. 

Do Dental Implants Set Off Metal Detectors? 

Yes, in some cases, dental implants can set off metal detectors at airports. This is because they contain titanium, a metal that metal detectors can detect. However, titanium is also an extremely common material, and most metal detectors will only detect it if it is very thick or close enough to the detector itself. It’s important to note that while dental implants may set off metal detectors, they do not pose any safety risk whatsoever. 

What Should I Do If My Implant Sets Off A Metal Detector? 

If your implant sets off a metal detector at an airport, don’t panic! It would be best to inform the TSA agent first that you have a dental implant and provide proof of your procedure (such as a doctor’s note). The TSA agent may then ask you to step aside for further screening, such as a pat-down or winding but rest assured that this does not mean there is any safety risk associated with your implant – it simply means that additional screening must be done as a precautionary measure. 

What Else Do I Need To Know About Traveling With Dental Implants? 

Before traveling with dental implants, patients need to consult with their dentist about potential issues that could arise during travel, such as fluctuating air pressure on airplanes or radiation exposure from X-ray machines at airport security checkpoints. Additionally, if your dental implant has been recently placed—within three months—it is recommended that you wait until after four months before traveling so as not to put too much stress on the implant while it heals properly.  

The Bottom Line

Traveling with dental implants doesn’t have to be scary or overwhelming; however, patients must research before flying to know what potential risks may arise and how best to handle them if necessary. By consulting with your dentist before taking off and informing airport personnel of your implant upon entering the checkpoint line, travelers can ensure an easy trip that won’t compromise their safety or their implant’s integrity. With these tips in mind, you can rest assured that your next flight will be smooth sailing!

FAQs

1. Can Implants Get Through Airport Security?

Dental implants will appear on a metal detector, but TSA officers don’t care about them because they are small and in the mouth. Because dental implants are so small, TSA agents won’t have to check them to ensure they aren’t something else.

2. Can I Fly After Getting A Tooth Implant?

In short, it’s fine to fly after having your wisdom teeth removed or getting a dental implant because the cabin is pressurized, and changes in altitude won’t make you hurt or bleed more.