The Prevalence of Orofacial Pain and Tooth Fracture (Odontocrexis) Associated with SCUBA Diving

Abstract

Aim To assess the prevalence of orofacial complications associated with SCUBA (self-contained underwater breathing apparatus) diving. Main outcome measures were prevalence of orofacial pain and odontocrexis. Method Two hundred divers at four dive centres on the north-east coast of Australia were asked to complete a questionnaire that requested information regarding diving experience and facial pain and dental symptoms experienced during diving. Results One hundred and twenty-five completed questionnaires were returned (63% response rate). The prevalence of reported orofacial pain was 44%. Twenty-one per cent reported toothache, 27% sinus pain, 16% jaw pain, and 12% other pain. The prevalence of odontocrexis was less than 1%. Less than 1% had lost a filling when diving. No divers reported a crown or bridge being dislodged during diving. Conclusion Among those who returned questionnaires, orofacial pain in divers was common and odontocrexis was rare.