Up to 40% of subjects report metallic taste sensations when exposed to strong magnetic fields. Can the perception of metallic taste during an ultra-high field (UHF) examination be lessened and thus increase patient comfort? This study experimentally examines the influence of jaw position and ionic composition of saliva (salinity and acidity) on metallic taste perception. We found that simple changes in tongue and teeth positions as well as saline in the mouth decrease the metallic taste sensation during UHF exposure. Following the current trend to UHF applications, these findings allow for further insight regarding increased patient comfort and acceptance of UHF examinations.
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