Key dental hygiene tips for seafarers

As seafarers spend long periods of time onboard ships, they are unable to visit a doctor for check-ups when required. Dental care is a common issue that the crew faces while at sea. In a worst-case scenario, dental problems require urgent medical treatment or even the repatriation of seafarers.

When a dental issue arises, it usually affects seafarers’ work productivity and performance, while it also influences their concentration and leads to a safety risk.

What is really hiding behind dental problems?

The main causes of dental problems are:

• Tendency to consume highly caffeinated, energy and sugary drinks due to the long working hours onboard
• Unhealthy and untimely snacking
• High levels of nicotine inhalation

Seafarers must pay attention to their dental health and take care of their teeth to avoid periodontal (gum) disease.

The pain relief medicines onboard are a temporary solution as they don’t fix the overall problem. A dental problem can worsen if its symptoms are not observed early.

Specifically, the symptoms include:

• Persistent bad breath
• Red or swollen gums
• Bleeding or tender gums
• Painful chewing
• Loose or sensitive teeth

As the dental care systems vary from port to port, the quality of care may also differ from region to region.