Dental Squeeze

[Ondeen]

I have multiple dental issues and know this probably makes me a possible candidate for a dental squeeze. I don't intend to let this possibility stop me from diving if I can help it. I would, however, like to know what I can do in the unlikely event that I experience one.

Thanks!
Ondine

 

[creamofwheat]

I have a couple veneers on my teeth (caps, pretty much) so I, too, have a possibility of getting a tooth squeeze. Though, it hasn't been a problem yet!

IF it happens, though, I have been told to slow or stop descent/ascent and wait for the air to work it's way out.

But it's best to just avoid it all together. Regular dental checkups to make sure there is no air space in the teeth will avoid the problem altogether.

 

[timle]

I look at it this way. Its not very common + while painful its not life threating or likely to cause long term damage.

If one experience one best to ascend to see if it will work itself out. If not and the pain is great - abort the dive. Then seek a dentist to see if they can see any gaps to correct.

 

[devolution365]

I specifically ask about air spaces whenever I get dental x-rays. My new dentist had never heard of dental squeeze, so it never hurts to bring it up. (I'm sure they probably look for air spaces anyway because of the probability of bacteria growth and/or decay in those areas, but I'm all about reducing my risks of problems underwater.)

 

[MB]

If one experience one best to ascend to see if it will work itself out. If not and the pain is great - abort the dive.

The problem of a dental squeeze is that its most likely to become a problem on ascent, not the descent. (Remember Boyle's Law - expanding air bubble in the space in a tooth as pressure is decreased on ascent). Check your air supply. Then descend a couple of feet until the discomfort stops. Then resume the ascent at a very very slow rate.

This is rare, but not likely to be a pleasant experience. And yes, its fortunately not a catastrophic event.

 

[scubaren]

I have many dental problems and have had two dental squeezes in the last two years. One resulted in a root canal and the other in an apicoectomy. They were both very painful when they happened and I ended the dive on both occasions.

 

[KingViper]

I have multiple dental issues and know this probably makes me a possible candidate for a dental squeeze. I don't intend to let this possibility stop me from diving if I can help it. I would, however, like to know what I can do in the unlikely event that I experience one.

Thanks!
Ondine

I have multiple fillings from when I didn't take care of my teeth as a Kid and I have had no problems, YET.

 

[Greg D.]

man I was really enjoying my "hot tamales" untill I saw this thread, thanks alot

This has to be the one thing I hope I never have happen I hate tooth pain with a passion!!

 

[Double_D]

I have a mostly metal molar that pops and carries on when I ascend. No pain (yet) but plenty of pressure and the occasional cold twinge, especially in colder water. I'm not too worried about it.

The dentist has assured me the gaps between the material and the tooth are microscopic based on his Xray and exam, and I have no reason to dispute it. Sure feels weird though. The deeper I ascend from, predictably the more pressure I experience.

Enjoy