Extent and flux density of static magnetic fields generated by orthodontic samarium-cobalt magnets

The aim of this study was to measure and to analyze the extent and flux density of static magnetic fields generated by commercially available samarium-cobalt magnets used in orthodontics. The flux density was measured with a gaussmeter and a Hall probe with the magnets mounted in clinically relevant positions, i.e., in attractive and in repelling positions and also in the single position. Furthermore, the flux density between new and clinically used and recycled magnets was compared. It was found that the maximum flux density was generated at the pole faces and that magnets in attractive positions produced the highest flux density (2.2 kG), followed by the single magnet (2.0 kG) and the repelling magnets (1.7 kG). The flux density decreased rapidly (exponentially) with increased distance from the magnets. The flux density was approximately the same or less than the flux density of the earth magnetism (0.3 to 0.7 G) 60 mm from the attractive magnets, 50 mm from the single magnets, and 35 mm from the repelling magnets. The difference in flux density between new and clinically used and recycled samarium-cobalt magnets was negligible. Thus, the static magnetic field exposure of surrounding tissues can be assumed to be low, and the conceivable risk of harmful biologic effects must be regarded as small and limited when the tested orthodontic magnets are used clinically.