Oral health is a crucial part of overall well-being. It affects our appearance, self-confidence and self-esteem; it is linked to our physical and mental health. Yet, it remains a neglected aspect of public health. A large number of people lack access to basic dental care. Even when they have insurance, they may not see a dentist as frequently as people in better-off families. Disparities in utilization of dental services can be attributed to both income and race.
The lack of dental services and the inability to afford treatment for existing oral diseases can have profound adverse effects on a person’s quality of life. This can be seen in the fact that individuals with untreated or inadequately treated dental disease are more likely to have other serious health problems, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. In addition, oral disease can interfere with the ability to use and maintain prosthetics such as hip and knee replacements.
As a group, dental practitioners are in an excellent position to promote oral health for their patients and the community. As such, they need to reorient themselves from a clinical perspective, the ‘clinical gaze’, towards taking on an overarching community focus. This will help them to appreciate the ‘bigger picture’ beyond the confines of their clinical settings and make them better advocates for policies that address local, socioeconomically driven health inequalities.
Dental practitioners have a unique role to play in promoting the relationship between oral and general health, especially in the context of current concerns about the impact of poverty and social inequality. They need to understand the impact of an individual’s environment, social circumstances and genetic predisposition on their oral health and be ready to offer support to people in need.
Moreover, the dental profession can contribute to improving access to healthcare by encouraging greater integration of oral and general health and providing more education and outreach to patients. Specifically, it can facilitate better communication between dentists and hygienists, physicians and nurses and other members of the health care team about the importance of oral health to general well-being.
Visiting a Torrance dentist offers an opportunity to receive valuable guidance on maintaining optimal oral hygiene at home. The dentist and their team can provide tips and techniques for effective brushing, flossing, and dietary choices to support your oral health between visits.
Moreover, regular dental visits foster a collaborative relationship between you and your dentist, built on trust, communication, and mutual respect. By prioritizing preventive care and proactive intervention, you can enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles and overall well-being.