Abstract

Exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) emanating from the generation, distribution, and utilization of electricity is widespread. The major debate in recent years has focused on the possibility that exposure to ELF-MF may result in adverse health consequences. The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of ELF-MF on the mineral content in rat teeth. 27 male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: two experimental (each, n=10), one control sham (n=7). After ELF-MF and sham exposure, some mineral levels (Ca, Mg, Zn, and P) were determined with Atomic Absorbtion Spectrophotometry (AAS). It was determined that Ca levels increased in the two experimental groups as compared to the sham group (p<.05). The levels of Ca, Mg, Zn, and P in second experimental group rats were also higher than sham group (p<.05). The results demonstrate that ELF-MF can have significant effects on teeth mineral content. Future observationsand epidemiological studies of ELF-MF effects should be accompanied by laboratory experiments to evaluate oral and dental effects.

Key words: ELF magnetic field, teeth, trace elements, mineral.