Recent insights into social determinants of health (SDH) demonstrate that addressing these widespread influences can positively impact health outcomes. Here, we explore the various social determinants that influence oral health, discuss health disparities, and provide practical insights for dental professionals to incorporate into their patients’ care plans.
social determinants of health
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “social determinants of health (SDH) are non-medical factors that influence health outcomes.”1The conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age have a profound impact on their health and well-being. Examples of SDH include socioeconomic status, education level, employment, and access to health care.
Lower socio-economic status is associated with higher prevalence of dental caries and periodontal disease due to limited access to dental treatment and preventive services.2 Furthermore, economic constraints can lead to malnutrition and unhealthy eating habits, which can contribute to oral health problems.
Children from higher SES families are more likely to have better oral health and visit the dentist regularly than those from lower SES backgrounds.2 According to the report, the presence of tooth decay serves as a reliable indicator of socio-economic inequality between children and adults.
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education
The higher the level of education, the better the knowledge about oral health.3 Education improves health literacy and enables individuals to make informed decisions about their health. With a better understanding of oral health and disease processes, patients are more likely to adopt good hygiene practices.
Access to employment and care
Stable employment with dental benefits facilitates regular dental visits and allows for early intervention for oral health problems. Additionally, the stress of unemployment or job insecurity can cause oral health problems. A 2020 study proved that having access to dental insurance through your employer increases the rate of regular dental visits and improves overall oral health.Four Lack of access to preventive care can contribute to avoidable oral health problems.
Controlling dental disease requires efforts that prioritize social determinants as the building blocks of a health-enabling environment. Dentistry requires innovative models to allocate resources to population-based promotions that address social determinants. Until then, dental professionals can address her SDH by providing culturally appropriate care, participating in community outreach, collaborating with other health professionals, and advocating for policy change. I can. Through these efforts, we can reduce inequalities in oral health.
Addressing social determinants in dental hygiene work
Screening and evaluation
Dental professionals can use screening tools during patient assessments to identify social determinants that influence oral health. Gathering information about a patient’s socio-economic background, living situation, and access to health care can provide valuable insight into the barriers patients may face in maintaining optimal oral health. Masu. This information leads to an individualized care plan that addresses each patient’s needs and circumstances.
referral network
By building strong partnerships with social service agencies and community organizations, dental teams can refer patients to resources that address social determinants. These referrals may include financial assistance programs, housing assistance, and health care access initiatives. By collaborating with other professionals in community-based organizations, dental teams can develop a holistic approach to patient care.
culturally appropriate care
Cultural competency training is essential to better understand patient diversity and cultural backgrounds. Embracing cultural sensitivity fosters trust between the patient and the dental team, leading to open communication and patient engagement. Being aware of cultural customs and beliefs helps us provide respectful and responsible care to each patient’s unique needs.
individual care plan
Tailoring the treatment plan to the patient’s financial situation, time constraints, and oral health needs is essential to patient-centered care. Involving patients in the decision-making process allows them to take an active role in managing their oral health. This approach increases patient compliance and improves treatment outcomes.
Contributing to local communities
By engaging in community-based initiatives, dental teams can engage underserved populations and promote oral health awareness, preventive care, and access to dental services. By actively participating in community events and support programs, you can contribute to improving oral health beyond the clinical setting.
rights protection
Local, state, and national advocacy efforts can draw attention to the impact of social determinants on oral health disparities. We work with policymakers and legislators to increase access to dental care, expand dental insurance coverage for vulnerable populations, and develop preventive oral health initiatives to significantly improve health outcomes. can promote policies that prioritize
Recognizing the importance of social determinants of health in dental practice is critical. To fully address the burden of dental disease, these determinants must be appropriately addressed. By addressing these determinants through individualized care plans, patient education, community outreach, and advocacy, dental professionals can contribute to a more equitable and comprehensive approach to health care. Let’s work together towards a future where oral health equity is a reality for everyone.
References
- Social determinants of health. who. 2023. https://www.who.int/health-topics/social-determinants-of-health#tab=tab_1
- Verlinden DA, Reinefeldt SA, Lanting CI, Wauwe JP, Schuller AA. Socioeconomic inequalities in oral health from childhood to young adulthood despite full dental insurance coverage. Eur J Oral Sci. 2019;127(3):248-253. doi:10.1111/eos.12609
- Marquez-Arrico C, Almerich-Silla J, Montiel-Company J. Oral health knowledge related to educational level of the Spanish adult population. J Clinic Exdent 2019;11(12):e1143-1150. doi:10.4317/jced.56411
- Zivkovic N, Aldossri M, Gomaa N, Farmer JW, Singhal S, Quiñonez C, Ravaghi V. The provision of dental insurance can positively impact oral health outcomes in Ontario. BMC Health Service Res. 2020;20(1). doi:10.1186/s12913-020-4967-3