Influence of submerged electrical welding/cutting on dental amalgam in Swedish divers

Area of Science:

• Occupational health
• Materials science
• Dental research

Background:

• Commercial divers performing electrical cutting and welding report experiencing a metallic taste.
• This phenomenon is hypothesized to be linked to the corrosion of dental restorations, particularly amalgam.
• Previous research has not identified equipment as a factor, but noted potential links to water salinity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the cause of the metallic taste phenomenon experienced by commercial divers during electrical welding.
• To determine the influence of welding on the corrosion rate of dental amalgam in divers.
• To explore the relationship between water salinity and the occurrence of the metallic taste.

Main Methods:

• An enquête study was conducted among commercial divers regarding the metallic taste phenomenon.
• Experimental measurements recorded the electrical potential of amalgam specimens in divers' oral cavities during welding.
• Correlations between welding, water contact, and amalgam potential were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The enquête revealed no significant influence of different diving equipment on the metallic taste.
• The metallic taste was reported less frequently in low salinity water environments.
• Amalgam specimen potential, indicating corrosion rate, was influenced by welding only when direct water contact occurred (e.g., suit leakage).

Conclusions:

• The metallic taste phenomenon in divers is likely associated with the increased corrosion of dental amalgam.
• Direct water contact during welding significantly impacts amalgam's electrical potential and likely its corrosion rate.
• Water salinity may play a role in the frequency of this occupational health issue.