MELISA Test in Madrid
The test that detects whether your body is sensitive to metals before any dental treatment. At Bio Salud Dental we advise you when it is necessary and refer you to a specialised laboratory.
What is the MELISA Test?
The MELISA Test (Memory Lymphocyte Immunostimulation Assay) is a scientifically validated laboratory test that measures your immune system's hypersensitivity reaction to certain metals, chemical products and infectious agents.
In the dental context, the MELISA Test is especially important for detecting sensitivity to metals such as titanium, nickel, mercury, cobalt and chromium — materials commonly used in implants, crowns, brackets and fillings.
Why is it important before an implant?
Although allergies to pure titanium are uncommon, sensitivity to titanium alloys (which contain vanadium, aluminium and other metals) is more common than generally believed. A patient with sensitivity to these metals may experience chronic inflammation, pain, implant failure or systemic symptoms.
At Bio Salud Dental, we recommend the MELISA Test as part of our diagnostic protocol before placing implants. We refer the patient to a specialised laboratory to carry out the test. If the test detects sensitivity to titanium or its alloys, we recommend zirconia implants as a safe, 100% metal-free alternative.
How is it performed?
The MELISA Test is carried out through a simple blood draw at a specialised laboratory, where the reactions of your lymphocytes (immune system cells) to different metals and substances are analysed. Results are available in approximately 2–3 weeks.
It is a non-invasive, safe test with no side effects. It only requires a venous blood sample, similar to a routine blood test.
Frequently asked questions
We answer your questions
It detects type IV hypersensitivity (mediated by T cells) to metals such as titanium, nickel, mercury, cobalt, chromium, palladium, and others. It can also analyse sensitivity to chemical products and infectious agents.
It is not mandatory, but at Bio Salud Dental we recommend it as part of our biological protocol. It is especially important if you have a history of allergies, autoimmune diseases or metal sensitivity.
Approximately 2–3 weeks from the blood draw. The results are analysed in a specialised laboratory.
No. It only requires a venous blood draw, exactly the same as a routine blood test.
Zirconia implants (zirconium dioxide, ZrO₂) are the direct alternative. They are 100% ceramic, metal-free, and there are no known cases of zirconia allergy. At Bio Salud Dental we are specialists in zirconia implants.
It is generally not covered by standard dental insurance. Contact us for details on the conditions and cost of the test.
At Bio Salud Dental we advise you when it is necessary and refer you to a specialised laboratory. Contact us at our clinics: C/ Fuentesaúco 7 (Latina) and C/ Esmeralda 25 (Usera).
Skin allergy tests (prick tests) detect type I hypersensitivity (immediate). The MELISA Test detects type IV hypersensitivity (delayed, mediated by T cells), which is the type of reaction caused by dental metals.
Related articles
Learn more about the MELISA Test and the biocompatibility of dental materials
What is the MELISA Test? Everything you need to know
The test that detects metal hypersensitivity. How it is done, what it is for and why it is important before getting an implant.
Dental titanium allergy: symptoms and alternatives
Is it possible to be allergic to titanium? Symptoms, diagnosis and what to do if you have sensitivity.
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