Can You Get a Chest X-Ray with Metal Braces? the Risks and Effects

Taking a chest X-ray with metal dental braces?

Can I have a chest X-ray while wearing metal braces? I am reminded to remove metal jewelry every time I have an X-ray, which makes me feel like wearing metal jewelry poses a life-threatening risk.
However, it seems like the concern is mainly about interference with the examination results.
So, I want to know if wearing braces in my mouth would affect a chest X-ray.
Also, is there any risk associated with X-rays? I remember from health textbooks that there is a recommended limit for radiation exposure in a year, but I've seen comments from some doctors suggesting that X-rays do not leave any radiation in the body.
Is there actually some impact on the body? Thank you, doctor.

A A, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/20

Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology

Hello, any removable metallic foreign objects within the X-ray exposure area should be removed in advance to avoid interference with the imaging and affecting the physician's diagnosis.
X-rays are a form of ionizing radiation, and only excessive exposure poses risks.
The radiation dose from a chest X-ray is approximately 0.02 millisieverts.
According to the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) report 103, doses below 100 millisieverts (whether received in a single exposure or multiple exposures) do not cause clinically significant functional damage.

Whether a human undergoes an X-ray examination or an object is subjected to standard X-ray exposure, the energy penetrates the body or object, similar to how the body or object does not emit light after sun exposure.
Therefore, there is no need to worry about residual radiation or contamination.

Human tissues and organs are composed of numerous cells, and if exposed to a large amount of radiation, the cells may exhibit the following damage responses: 1.
Low-dose radiation may not affect cellular metabolism or delay normal cycles, and after some time, they can self-repair and return to normal.
Routine radiological diagnostics and nuclear medicine examinations fall under low-dose radiation, which is less hazardous than smoking.
2.
High-dose short-term exposure or low-dose long-term exposure can damage cells, causing them to lose their ability to divide and reproduce, ultimately leading to cell death.
3.
If damaged cells divide abnormally, changes in the genetic material (DNA) of germ cells can affect offspring, and abnormal development in individual cells may lead to tumors.
4.
If the energy is very high, irradiated cells may swell and rupture immediately.

Please refer to the above information, and I wish you safety and health.

Reply Date: 2020/07/20

More Info

Yes, you can get a chest X-ray while wearing metal braces. The primary concern with any metal objects during an X-ray procedure is that they can interfere with the quality of the images produced. This interference can lead to artifacts on the X-ray images, which may obscure important details that the radiologist needs to evaluate. However, the metal in dental braces is typically not located in the area being imaged during a chest X-ray, so it should not significantly affect the results.

When you are asked to remove metal jewelry or other accessories before an X-ray, it is mainly to ensure the clearest possible images. The metal can create shadows or distortions that may complicate the interpretation of the X-ray. In the case of braces, the metal is fixed to your teeth and cannot be removed, so it is generally not a cause for concern during a chest X-ray.

Regarding radiation exposure, it is important to understand that X-rays use ionizing radiation, which can pose risks if exposure levels are high. However, the amount of radiation from a single chest X-ray is relatively low, approximately 0.02 millisieverts (mSv). According to the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), doses below 100 mSv are not associated with any clinically significant damage to health. For context, the average person is exposed to about 3 mSv of background radiation each year from natural sources.

It is also worth noting that the body does not retain radiation after an X-ray. The energy from the X-ray passes through the body and is absorbed by different tissues, but it does not leave any residual radiation. This is similar to how sunlight does not remain on your skin after you step out of the sun. Therefore, there is no risk of radiation "contamination" from wearing metal braces during an X-ray.

While low-dose radiation from X-rays is generally considered safe, it is still wise to minimize unnecessary exposure. Medical professionals weigh the benefits of obtaining diagnostic images against the risks of radiation exposure. If a doctor recommends an X-ray, it is usually because the potential benefits of diagnosing a condition outweigh the risks associated with the radiation.

In summary, wearing metal braces will not prevent you from having a chest X-ray, and the radiation exposure from such a procedure is minimal and generally safe. If you have concerns about radiation exposure or the necessity of the X-ray, it is always a good idea to discuss these with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and the specific circumstances of your situation.

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