The Impact of Barodontalgia on Your Dental Health: What Is Barodontalgia and How Does It Occur?
Barodontalgia, commonly known as “tooth squeeze,” occurs when changes in pressure affect the air pockets in your teeth. This phenomenon is typically experienced by individuals in extreme environments, such as pilots, scuba divers, and mountaineers. When the pressure around you changes rapidly, the air in your teeth either expands or contracts, potentially causing pain and even damage.
If you have concerns about your oral health, contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 for a dental exam and cleaning.
Why Do Air Pockets Form in Your Teeth?
Air pockets in your teeth can form due to several reasons. Fillings, crowns, or dentures that do not fit perfectly can allow tiny amounts of air to seep in. Additionally, untreated tooth decay can create spaces where air can become trapped. These air pockets become problematic in situations involving significant pressure changes.
Who Is at Risk for Tooth Squeeze?
While anyone can potentially experience barodontalgia, certain groups are at higher risk:
- Professionals in High-Pressure Environments: Scuba divers, pilots, mountain climbers, and submarine workers frequently face drastic pressure changes.
- Individuals with Dental Work: People with fillings, crowns, or dentures are more susceptible to developing air pockets.
- Those with Dental Decay or Infection: Existing dental issues can worsen under pressure changes, increasing the likelihood of experiencing tooth squeeze.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Tooth Squeeze
If you encounter tooth squeeze, you may notice several symptoms:
- Tooth pain and sensitivity
- Inflammation of the tooth pulp
- Loose fillings, crowns, or dentures
- Infections at the tooth root
- Dental cysts
- Bleeding gums
- Fractured or broken teeth
Preventative Measures and Treatment
To minimize the risk of barodontalgia, it’s essential to maintain good dental health and seek regular check-ups. If you have had dental work or suspect any decay, it’s crucial to address these issues before engaging in activities that involve significant pressure changes.
Seeking Professional Help
If you believe you are at risk of tooth squeeze or have experienced symptoms, contacting a dental professional is imperative. At California Dental Group, we offer comprehensive dental examinations to identify and mitigate potential issues that could lead to barodontalgia.
How We Can Help
At California Dental Group, our experienced team can:
- Examine your dental work for potential leaks
- Address any existing tooth decay or infections
- Provide personalized advice on how to protect your teeth in high or low-pressure environments
Our goal is to ensure your dental health is uncompromised, regardless of your lifestyle or profession.
Contact Us Today
If you have concerns about barodontalgia or any other dental issues, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to schedule an appointment. Let us help you maintain optimal dental health and avoid the discomfort of tooth squeeze.
