Most of us have had to have some type of dental work done; and, while most of the time we’re left with smiles that look great and feel fantastic, there are some circumstances under which diving post-dental work is just not advisable. If you know you have upcoming dental work which needs to be done and you’re trying to schedule a vacation for about the same time, be sure to talk with your dentist about any negative ramifications of diving after dental work.
Pressure and Air Space
As you know, any type of bubble or air space inside your body can cause pain and even physical trauma while diving. Some types of dental work, particularly root canals with temporary caps or crowns covering unfinished work, are not compatible with diving at all. The reason for this is that as you ascend and air pressure increases inside your tooth or teeth, your dental work could literally explode inside your mouth, causing injury and perhaps even causing you to inhale or swallow portions of the dental structure. The pain from an accident like this is excruciating, and the inhaling a foreign object while diving introduces the possibility that death could occur. If you have any type of temporary dental work at all, assume that the bonds between the temporary fixtures and your teeth are not strong enough to withstand increased air pressure, and don’t risk your health or your life by diving.
Dental Conditions Exacerbated By Diving
If you have chronic dental pain of any type, you may find that diving causes the pain to increase. If you have problems with the roots of your teeth, and if your dentist has recommended a pulpectomy or root canal to rectify those problems, you’ll probably find that enjoyable diving is an impossibility until you have the problems fixed. Cavities, loose fillings, and any other dental work that is not securely bonded can cause pain and potential problems, too. If you are considering porcelain crowns, you should know that they have been known to shatter at a depth of just 65 feet, as have other types of fragile dental work. If your teeth are fractured, or if you wear any type of dentures or orthodontics, they could also pose a problem while diving. Dry socket infections can also cause problems, if you have a dry socket infection, you’ll probably have to wait between two and eight weeks before diving.
Diving Dentistry
Some dentists specialize in providing dental work for divers. Some common services these dentists offer are tooth repairs that are compatible with diving, TMJ therapy to deal with the pain that can sometimes occur from the continuous jaw movements that are required to keep your regulator in place, and creating custom dentures for divers who cannot dive with standard partial dentures in place due to the risk of aspiration.
There are a number of dental issues that can cause problems for divers. The best way to avoid these problems is to be candid with your dentist and to take very good care of your teeth. If you’re in doubt about the safety of a certain cosmetic procedure or other dental procedure, avoid diving until your safety can be assured.