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With advancements like adding fluoride to the public water supply, it’s not surprising that the most recent National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that there was a decline in tooth decay since the 1970s. At a glance, this points to improvements in oral health across the board. However, that’s not the case. Repeated studies have shown that there is a significant disparity in some population groups, including people of color. To learn what the latest research says, as well as some potential reasons why, read on. Recent Research on the Disparities in Oral Health Based on Color There have been several studies conducted on the disparities in oral health based on color. Here are a few noteworthy findings: • While 17% of white children received preventive services in 2009, only 10% of Hispanic and black children did. • Data collected in 2011 and 2012 found that Hispanic and black children between the ages of two and eight were roughly twice as likely to have untreated tooth decay. • A 2014 study of preschool-aged children found that American Indian children were four times more likely to have untreated tooth decay compared to white children. • Black, Asian, and Hispanic adults were more likely than their white peers to have a tooth pulled because of tooth decay or gum disease. A Quick Look at a Few Potential Causes While more research needs to be conducted, researchers have pinpointed a few different reasons for these disparities: • Communities without fluoride in their water – Despite the numerous benefits, there are still areas that don’t have access to water with fluoride. Since this mineral plays a crucial role in preventing tooth decay, it could contribute to the previously mentioned disparities. • No dental insurance – Families without dental insurance are significantly less likely to schedule/attend biannual checkups and cleanings, especially if they don’t have the money to pay for routine preventive treatment out-of-pocket. • Lack of education surrounding the importance of oral hygiene – Many patients and families are simply unaware of how important brushing, flossing, and visiting a skilled dentist every six months is. • No nearby providers – For patients that live in rural communities, there may not be nearby dental professionals to help with essential preventive and restorative care. Furthermore, they may not have the money to spend on Ubers or public transportation to get them to their nearest dentist. What’s Being Done to Improve Oral Health Across the Board The silver lining is that extensive work is already underway on improving oral health for everyone. Two noteworthy steps forward from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention include school sealant programs and community water fluoridation. With more outreach programs to communities of color as well as more people of color becoming dentists, there is also hope for the disparities to become less and less moving forward.
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