33^rd Euro Dentistry Congress

Oral Health Disparities

Oral health disparities refer to the differences in oral health outcomes and access to dental care among different populations. These disparities can occur based on factors such as socioeconomic status, race or ethnicity, age, geographic location, and education level. Certain groups, such as low-income individuals, racial and ethnic minorities, and rural communities, often face higher rates of oral diseases, limited access to dental services, and barriers to oral health education. Oral health disparities contribute to inequalities in overall health and quality of life, as untreated dental conditions can impact nutrition, speech, and self-esteem. Addressing oral health disparities requires targeted efforts to improve access to affordable dental care, promote oral health education, and implement policies that prioritise preventive and equitable oral healthcare for all individuals.