PREVENTIVE AND EDUCATIONAL MEASURES THAT CAN BE IMPLEMENTED TO REDUCE ORAL HEALTH DISPARITIES IN THE UNITED STATES: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Oral health is a crucial element of health, as it not only accounts for healthy tooth conditions but also overall health. Currently, oral health diseases are one of the most prominent non-communicable diseases in the world, and this problem is especially apparent in underserved, low-income populations. Therefore, initiatives must be implemented to change social and public health policies regarding oral health, resource allocation, and both individual and professional behaviors toward oral health. Enhancing dental schools' instruction on inclusivity and accessibility in dental care is one of these initiatives. Furthermore, policymakers should consider fully expanding Medicaid in all states, providing coverage for dental care for all, if not many, residents of the United States. Additionally, expectant women should receive adequate education on maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent the further spread of oral diseases. This research paper explores the three initiatives—education in dental schools, expansion of Medicaid, and adequate parental education in oral health—in detail and provides potential solutions to ameliorate conditions in dental health disparities.