Health Highlight: Thu. 27, Apr.
Today’s Highlight(s): A recap of the main points and takeaways from the NIH/NIDCR’s 2021 Oral Health in America Report.
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THE BRIEF
In a massive report titled, Oral Health in America: Advances and Challenges (2021), the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) found that economic, geographical, and other social barriers, have created a widening health gap in the United States when it comes to dental and oral health. 1
“In this nation, oral health care is experienced differently by different groups of people…Somehow, the scientific advances we’ve made have not been fully translated over to communities in need.” 1 — NIDCR Director Rena D’Souza D.D.S., Ph.D.
What are some of the issues at play?
As you might expect, some of the usual suspects for the growing disparities stem from income inequality and access to health services. But found in the report’s executive summary are some often-overlooked systemic factors.
“Although an individual’s oral health habits—diet, toothbrushing, use of fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and visiting the dentist—play a role in ensuring good oral health, there are other important circumstances that can be even more important.” 2
Access to health education
Safe neighborhoods, homes, and workplaces
Access to clean food and water
Proximity to healthcare services
Trust in providers
Support for addiction and behavioral/mental health
Social and economic resources
What are the key takeaways from the report?
The Call to Action section of the executive summary offers three areas of focus:
The interlinking and integration of oral, medical, and behavioral health into well-established community settings such as schools, community clinics (medical, behavioral, and dental), and elderly care
Expanding and diversifying the nation’s oral health professionals to reflect underrepresented groups, along with finding ways to mitigate the costs of education and training for future professionals.
Taking steps to bring equality and equity to oral health access and affordability through policy and legislation 2
Figure 1.
Key Summary Points from the Oral Health in America Report (2021)
Resources
Medicaid & CHIP coverage [healthcare.gov]
Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide free or low-cost health coverage to millions of Americans, including some low-income people, families and children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
Find a Health Center [findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov]
The Bureau of Primary Health Care (BPHC) funds health centers in medically underserved communities, providing access to affordable, comprehensive, high-quality, primary healthcare services for people who are low-income, uninsured, or face other obstacles to getting health care.
How To Take Care of Your Oral Health [hrsa.gov]
Problems with your teeth, gums, or other parts of the mouth can increase your risk of [developing] some diseases or health conditions. Small steps, like seeing a dentist regularly for checkups, can help you protect your mouth and teeth and live well at any age.
Community Initiatives [ada.org]
The ADA’s mission is to help dentists succeed and support the advancement of the [public's health]. We are guided by our core values, which include integrity, excellence, and a dedication to [bringing] you evidence-based insights that empower you to provide quality oral care for all patients.
Keywords 🏷️: #DentalCare #HealthcareEquity #HealthcareAccess #OralHealth
NOTES
“Report Reveals Striking Differences in Oral Health Care Across the U.S.” https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/news-events/nidcr-news/report-reveals-striking-differences-oral-health-care-across-us
“Oral Health in America: Executive Summary” https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/sites/default/files/2021–12/Oral-Health-in-America-Executive-Summary.pdf