Prevalence and symptoms of barodontalgia in aircrew: a systematic review

Aim To synthesise epidemiological and clinical evidence on in-flight barodontalgia in professional aircrew.

Methods We searched Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for cross-sectional studies of in-flight barodontalgia. Seven studies (2013–2024) met the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted in duplicate, and risk of bias was assessed with the JBI cross-sectional checklist. Given heterogeneity in case definitions, a narrative synthesis (no meta-analysis) was performed.

Results Barodontalgia events occurred predominantly during descent (and also on some ascents). Prevalence varied widely across studies (~6% to 55%). Acute dental pain was the leading symptom, sometimes accompanied by headache or transient concentration loss. Overall study quality was moderate.

Conclusions In-flight barodontalgia is a relevant occupational health issue for aircrew. Harmonised case definitions and prospective validation of reports are needed. Preventive measures such as routine pre-flight dental check-ups and appropriate return-to-flight restrictions after recent dental treatment (as determined by aeromedical/occupational policy) may help reduce in-flight occurrences.