Xylitol for messrooms--a method worth trying to prevent caries among seafarers

Oral diseases seem to be the most common health problem of seafarers world-wide. Seafaring as an occupation may create a risk for the dental health of crews of ships. Sitting in messrooms and eating snacks in between regular meals is a popular way of spending free time during the ships voyage. This means not only high caloric intake which contributes to overweight but also to high dental caries incidence among crews. During long sea voyages, the access of seamen to dental services is very limited and making regular check ups and treatment of caries is difficult. The best solution to the problem of poor teeth is a preventive one. Conventional methods for preventing caries are health education, restrictions the use of sugar-containing products, good oral hygiene and use of fluorides. A newer method to prevent caries is systematic use of xylitol. Scientific evidence shows that the addition of small quantities of xylitol, a natural carbohydrate sweetener, to the diet causes a significant reduction in the incidence of dental caries.