What typically happens to trapped air in fillings during ascent?

During ascent, the air trapped in fillings expands due to the decrease in atmospheric pressure. As a flight paramedic, it's important to understand the principles of gas laws, particularly Boyle's Law, which states that at a constant temperature, the volume of a gas is inversely proportional to the pressure exerted on it. When the altitude increases, the surrounding pressure decreases, allowing the gas within the filling to expand.

This expansion can lead to discomfort or potential complications, especially in dental fillings that might contain air bubbles. Understanding this phenomenon is critical in both patient care and safety protocols during air transport, ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to mitigate any risks associated with pressure changes affecting medical devices or dental work.