Orthodontic Materials Interacting with Fifth Generation (5G) Electromagnetic Waves

Abstract

Objective: Public exposure to radiofrequency (RF) fields from fifth generation (5G) and other sources is known to be below human exposure limits. The interaction of RF fields with the human body has been widely documented, with tissue heating being the primary consequence for RF fields above 100 kHz. This study aimed to reveal possible harm to orthodontic patients associated with 5G electromagnetic waves. The possibility of individuals with orthodontic appliances (metallic braces, porcelain braces, thermoplastic appliances) being more affected by 5G was investigated. Methods: Sixty extracted human teeth were divided into 5 groups. Different types of brackets, arch, and ligature wires were applied to each group. Each group was exposed to 5G electromagnetic waves (3.6 GHz of frequency) for 60 minutes. Temperature measurements were made inside the canine root canals and in saline solution. Results: Exposure to a 5G electromagnetic field increased the temperatures of the root canal of the tooth and sodium chloride (NaCl) solution surrounding samples. Temperature increase in the canals were as follows; metal self-ligating braces > mini metal braces > porcelain braces > clear aligner > control. The temperature change in the NaCl solution at the 60th minute was close to each other in the self-ligating braces and mini metal braces groups. The temperature rise of the NaCl solution in the control group was also minimal. Conclusion: The hypothesis that orthodontic materials alter electromagnetic waves is supported by temperature increases. The ferromagnetic density of the orthodontic materials used was shown to be closely connected to temperature increase.

Keywords

• electromagnetic field
• ferromagnetic
• orthodontic materials
• radiofrequency
• telecommunication
• 5g