How does oral galvanism work?

Galvanic corrosion can occur in the oral cavity when dissimilar alloys come in direct contact with each other. When the saliva penetrates the metallic components of the dental implants, the resulting dissolution of the metal results in the generation of electric current. The electric current is generated due to the creation of the potential difference as a result of the formation of a galvanic cell.

In the patients who have had a metallic dental implant, complicated electrochemical processes occur between the implant and the tissues of the oral cavity including the electrolytes present in the saliva resulting in galvanic corrosion. This could lead to the dissolution of the alloy components of the metal as well as the destruction of the bones and other delicate tissues of the oral cavity due to the exposure to the current resulting from the galvanic coupling. 

For example; a dental amalgam filling may interact with the environment of the oral cavity causing erosion and destruction of the gums and bones. This indicates the need to create awareness about the risks involved in oral galvanism and the right ways to avoid it.

How does oral galvanism affect the body?

The tissues of the oral cavity subjected to the impact of galvanism tend to undergo chemical, mechanical, and biological changes.

Metal ions released during the electrochemical reactions occurring between the dental implants and the oral liquids are transported to the other parts of the body where they cause inflammation and toxicity.

Amalgam fillings containing mercury are most commonly associated with oral galvanism and long-term mercury poisoning. Mercury can get accumulated in different organs of the body including the brain, thus generating a cascade of inflammatory and degenerative reactions.

Mercury from amalgam fillings may accumulate in the white and red blood cells. It may reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of the red cells and reduce the infection-fighting capacity of the white cells.

One research study has revealed that amalgam fillings could be associated with chronic mercury poisoning suggesting the long-term and widespread impact of oral galvanism on the patient’s health.

The products of corrosion released during oral galvanism may get distributed throughout the body, resulting in an allergic or a hypersensitivity reaction by triggering the release of pro-inflammatory mediators like cytokines.

Several factors including the presence of fluoride ions, the difference in the oxygen concentration, dental plaques, mechanical stress, and microorganisms could increase the corrosion rate thus worsening the risk of chronic inflammatory diseases.

Oral galvanism may also occur due to other metals used in dental implants such as titanium, nickel, cobalt, beryllium, gold, and palladium.

The health of our oral cavity influences the functions of the vital organs in various ways. It can contribute to the healthy gut flora and improve digestive functions. It can also support the normal functions of the heart, liver, and kidneys by promoting hormonal balance and immunological functions.

The functional medicine approach can play a key role in the prevention of oral galvanism. It can help to maintain the health of the oral cavity and protect you against the consequences of metal toxicity.