Oral Health Experiences and practices while underwater among submariners

Objectives: The aim of the study was to describe the underwater oral health experiences and practices among submariners. Methods: Eighty-six Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) submariners training in France, who had undergone at least one cycle of underwater training, were selected to participate in a self-administered questionnaire survey. The survey elicits information on oral health experinces and practices. Results: The main findings for the quantitative component were: Seven percent of the respondents reported oro-facial pain and discomfort while under water; 9.3% reported bleeding gums while underwater; 12.8% of the experienced halitosis while underwater. About 82% of those with oral problems reported disruption of their daily activities while underwater. More than 82.5% of them brush their teeth at least twice a day and more than 94.2% rinse after meals regardless of whether they were underwater or on land. Most do not floss when underwater or on land. A high proportion snacked (³69.8%). About 49% of the respondents reported increased frequency in the consumption of carbonated drinks while underwater. Conclusion: It is concluded that dental emergencies, such as toothache and TMJ pain and discomfort, occurs during submarine operations and disrupt submariners' daily activities. This poses a treat to submarine operations. High proportion of submariners snack and consume carbonated drinks when they are underwater and when they are on land as carbonated drinks are easily available in the submarine.