**3.9. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatibility**

Orthodontists are often asked to remove fixed orthodontic appliances prior to an MRI scan—a diagnostic tool that does not expose the patient to radiation—particularly when looking for pathology in the head and neck region or when information regarding the articular disc is required [10, 27].

Beau et al. [27] provided a detailed flowchart concerning the indications for the removal of fixed orthodontic appliances prior to MRI scans of the head and neck region. According to this flowchart, ceramic brackets do not have to be removed prior to an MRI scan. They are MRI-safe. However, ceramic brackets with any metal components, such as stainless steel slots, have to be removed if the region under examination is adjacent to these brackets. Stainless steel causes extensive artifacts, which may degrade image quality beyond clinical acceptability. The authors [27] pointed out that they did not include arch wires or removable appliances in their research, since these can be easily removed prior to an MRI scan.
