Microleakage of Amalgam Restorations after Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields of a Commercial Hair Dryer: An Ex-Vivo Study

Authors: Paknahad M, Dehghani A, Khaleghi I, Eghildespour M, Mortazavi G, Mortazavi SMJ

Year: 2025 Jun 1

Category: Dentistry, Electromagnetic Field Safety, Experimental Research

Journal: J Biomed Phys Eng

DOI: 10.31661/jbpe.v0i0.2210-1551

URL: https://jbpe.sums.ac.ir/article_49466.html

Abstract

Overview

Dental amalgam remains a widely used restorative material for posterior teeth. However, modern electrical appliances such as hair dryers emit electromagnetic fields (EMFs) which may impact the amalgam-tooth interface, potentially increasing microleakage.

Objective

This experimental study aimed to determine if EMFs produced by commercial hair dryers can affect the microleakage of amalgam restorations.

Methods

  • 100 human extracted teeth were prepared with class V cavities on their buccal aspects.
  • Teeth were randomized into five groups (G1-G5, 20 per group).
  • Group 1 (control) received no treatment, while Groups 2-5 were exposed to EMFs from a 2000W hair dryer at 220V/50Hz under varying "Hot Air" and "Cool Air" protocols and distances.
  • Microleakage was quantified using dye penetration measurement.

Findings

  • Groups G2, G3, and G5, which were exposed to EMFs, showed significantly higher microleakage scores compared to the control (P=0.001, 0.002, and 0.01).
  • G4 did not show a significant difference from the control.
  • G2 (Hot Air/10cm/20min) had greater microleakage than G4 (Cool Air/10cm/20min).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates a clear link: EMFs from commonly used devices like hair dryers can induce increased microleakage in dental amalgam restorations, compromising dental health and restoration integrity. It is important to recognize that everyday EMF exposure can pose real health risks in dental materials.

amalgam microleakage electromagnetic fields hair dryer dental restoration EMF safety ex-vivo study
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