Roles of dentists and dental hygienists in two major earthquakes.

Background: In recent years, disasters that overwhelm the capacity of humans have been frequent. However, international cooperation has been swift as a result of advances in transportation, enabling the more prompt administration of First Aid.
Methods: We have had two opportunities to observe outcomes in oral hygiene immediately after and 10 months after two different major disasters.
Results: The types of food provided to survivors altered their sense of taste and resulted in the occurrence of dental caries several months after an earthquake. In addition, it is difficult to practise good oral hygiene in the aftermath of a disaster.
Conclusions: We observed the occurrence of previously undocumented problems related to dental issues, such as changes in children's sense of taste caused by unfamiliar types of food provided in relief shelters. Dentists and dental hygienists who are involved in the relief of survivors in the immediate aftermath of a natural disaster should focus on maintaining good oral health in order to prevent the occurrence of dental caries.
(© 2012 FDI World Dental Federation.)