Maintaining good dental health is vital for overall well-being, yet sailors face unique challenges in this regard due to prolonged periods away from professional dental care. Extended voyages, often lasting several months or even years, restrict access to routine dental check-ups, preventive care, and early detection of emerging oral health problems. The isolation at sea creates an environment where even minor dental issues can worsen, and new oral health conditions can develop in the absence of expert treatment. This review explores the impact of long-distance sea travel on sailors' oral health, focusing on how pre-existing conditions, such as dental caries and gum disease, can deteriorate over time without proper care. Additionally, it examines the emergence of new oral health issues, including tooth decay and periodontal problems, which are exacerbated by the lack of access to dental professionals. The review further highlights contributing factors, such as limited access to nutritious foods, dehydration, and stress, all of which can negatively affect oral health. Furthermore, the review discusses the implications of these challenges on sailors’ overall health and well-being, emphasizing the need for effective preventive measures and dental care strategies to address these issues. By addressing these gaps in care, this review aims to provide a better understanding of the dental health risks faced by sailors and the importance of improving oral health support during long voyages.
Ahlawat et al. (Wed,) studied this question.