Air pushes firmly in all directions, but most of us don't stop to consider what a few cubic millimeters of air can really do. Sure, it's amusing when that bag of chips bought at sea level inflates like a balloon on the airplane, but these same changes in pressure can have less desirable impacts on oral health.
Barodontalgia is dental pain arising from a change in pressure. Most commonly seen in divers and aviators, the condition arises from an air pocket trapped within the tooth or gingiva. Air pockets may occur in occluded cavities, incompletely filled restorations, or pulpitis. As the external pressure on the tooth changes, the difference between it and the internal pressure exerts a force on the tooth or gingival structure, causing sensitivity and pain. Pressure in the maxillary sinuses can also refer pain to the teeth.
First encountered by pilots in World War II, both the Luftwaffe and U. S. Air Force reported scattered cases of anomalous dental pain while airborne that resolved upon landing. While not usually dangerous, barodontalgia can be exceptionally painful. Even modern airline pilots who benefit from pressurized cabins still suffer from the condition, and have been known to make emergency landings due to the pain.
In rare cases involving inadequate excavation or incomplete filling of a carious lesion, fillings have occasionally been ejected from the tooth surface as the pressure differential fights to balance itself. However, aside from outright failure of a restoration, patients who suffer from this condition find it difficult to seek care, as they are unable to replicate the symptoms on the ground. Although transient, this condition should not be overlooked as it may indicate hidden problems a patient may not be aware of or bring to the attention of their dentist.
Sources:
Barodontalgia – Toothache triggered by hypobaric and hyperbaric conditions - MEDICAL CORPS INTERNATIONAL FORUM. (2014, July 13). Retrieved July 12, 2016, from http://www.mci-forum.com/barodontalgia-toothache-triggered-by-hypobaric-and-hyperbaric-conditions/
What is Barodontalgia? (2013, January 15). Retrieved July 12, 2016, from https://santarosadentist.wordpress.com/2013/06/15/what-is-barodontalgia/
The information contained in this, or any case study post in Incisor should never be considered a proper replacement for necessary training and/or education regarding adult oral conscious sedation. Regulations regarding sedation vary by state. This is an educational and informational piece. DOCS Education accepts no liability whatsoever for any damages resulting from any direct or indirect recipient's use of or failure to use any of the information contained herein. DOCS Education would be happy to answer any questions or concerns mailed to us at 106 Lenora Street, Seattle, WA 98121. Please print a copy of this posting and include it with your question or request.
