A bright smile is more than just an aesthetic asset—it’s a reflection of overall health. Oral health interacts with every aspect of our well-being, from the way we eat and speak to our risk of developing chronic diseases. World Oral Health Day is the perfect time to highlight the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and ensuring equitable access to dental care for all.
The Connection Between Oral and Systemic Health
Oral health is often viewed separately from general health, but the two are closely connected. The mouth is a gateway to the body, and poor oral hygiene can lead to serious health conditions. Research has linked gum disease to conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, and even pregnancy complications.1 When inflammation from gum disease spreads, it can contribute to chronic conditions such as diabetes, coronary heart disease and stroke, making oral health an important factor in disease prevention.1
Beyond physical health, oral health also affects our mental and social well-being. Dental problems can cause pain, trouble speaking and eating, and even social anxiety. People with untreated dental problems may experience reduced self-confidence, negatively impacting their professional and personal lives.2 Investing in oral health pays dividends in terms of holistic well-being.
Taking care of your teeth doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple habits can go a long way:
- Brush and floss daily: brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing once daily helps prevent cavities and gum disease.
- Visit your dentist regularly: routine check-ups and cleanings every six months allow early detection and treatment of dental problems before they worsen.
- Eat a balanced diet: limiting sugary and acidic foods can reduce the risk of cavities and enamel erosion.
- Stay hydrated: drinking water helps wash away food particles and fluoridated water helps strengthen teeth.
- Avoid tobacco products: smoking and chewing tobacco increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
Challenges in Access to Dental Care
In the United States, not everyone has equal access to this essential care. Many low-income families and marginalized communities miss routine dental check-ups, leading to higher rates of tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.3 According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 60% of low-income adults between 20 to 64 years show signs of gum disease, and children from low-income families are three times as likely to have untreated cavities compared to their higher-income peers.4
The expense of dental care presents a significant barrier to oral health. Untreated cavities are twice as common in those without health insurance coverage than those with private health insurance.4 Unlike general healthcare, dental insurance is often treated as an optional or “extra” benefit rather than a necessity, resulting in many individuals not having dental coverage. Even those with insurance often encounter high deductibles and copayments that make routine dental visits unaffordable.5 Moreover, the high costs of dental treatments sometimes force individuals to forgo necessary care, leading to more serious health problems over time.
Given the high costs, many do not prioritize regular dental check-ups and preventive care, seeking dental care only when they have severe pain or complications, which can lead to more costly and invasive treatments.
Recommendations
World Oral Health Day is a time to reflect on how we can improve dental health at both individual and community levels.
At the individual level, we can stay on top of our own oral hygiene by brushing, flossing and having regular check-ups with a dentist. If it’s been a while since your last dentist visit, consider making that appointment. If you have children, help them build those habits from an early age; they will thank you in the future!
Spreading awareness and education about oral health in underserved communities is key to improving overall public health. Advocating for the expansion of dental coverage through insurance programs, increasing funding for community dental clinics, and integrating dental services into primary healthcare can help increase dental care access for communities that need it. Tele-dentistry and mobile dental clinics are also being implemented as innovative solutions to reach underserved populations with essential preventive care.
At the community level, adding fluoride to public water supplies is one of the most significant public health achievements in preventing cavities. Studies have consistently shown that fluoride strengthens enamel, reduces decay, and benefits people of all ages.6 Despite this, misinformation about fluoride persists. Ensuring that communities continue to have access to fluoridated water and fluoride-based dental products is crucial in the fight against preventable dental diseases.
Advocacy efforts must continue to push for increased access to affordable dental care and the reduction of disparities in treatment. Supporting policies that promote oral health programs, expand dental coverage, and encourage public health initiatives can lead to lasting improvements.
Oral health is a fundamental part of overall health and well-being. This World Oral Health Day, let’s recommit to good oral hygiene habits, advocate for equitable access to dental care, and educate others about the vital role of a healthy mouth. Whether through daily brushing and flossing, routine dental visits, or community-based initiatives, every effort counts in creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to smile with confidence.
References:
- Nazir MA. Prevalence of periodontal disease, its association with systemic diseases and prevention. Int J Health Sci. 2017;11(2):72-80.
- Kaur P, Singh S, Mathur A, et al. Impact of Dental Disorders and its Influence on Self Esteem Levels among Adolescents. J Clin Diagn Res JCDR. 2017;11(4):ZC05-ZC08. doi:10.7860/JCDR/2017/23362.9515
- Hannan CJ. Addressing Oral Health Inequities, Access to Care, Knowledge, and Behaviors. Prev Chronic Dis. 2021;18. doi:10.5888/pcd18.210060
- CDC. Health Disparities in Oral Health. Oral Health. October 17, 2024. Accessed March 4, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/health-equity/index.html
- Gupta N, Vujicic M. Barriers to dental care are financial among adults of all income levels. Health Policy Institute Research Brief. American Dental Association. April 2019. https://www.ada.org/-/media/project/adaorganization/ada/ada-org/files/resources/research/hpi/hpibrief_0419_1.pdf
- CDC. About Community Water Fluoridation. Community Water Fluoridation. September 12, 2024. Accessed February 27, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/fluoridation/about/index.html