Help Bridge Oral Health Inequity In Your Community

1. Advocate for Preventive Care

Preventive care is the cornerstone of dentistry. Regular check-ups, early interventions, and patient education can significantly reduce the incidence of oral diseases.

However, a survey revealed that only 34% of oral health professionals consistently offer preventive care advice to patients, with time constraints cited as a primary barrier, especially within the NHS¹.

To enhance preventive care:

• Integrate brief advice sessions: Dedicate a few minutes during each appointment to discuss oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and the benefits of fluoride use.

• Utilise educational materials: Provide brochures or digital resources that reinforce the importance of preventive measures.

• Leverage technology: Implement reminder systems for regular check-ups and cleanings, encouraging patients to maintain their oral health routines.

• Offer flexible payment options: Implement payment plans or sliding scales to accommodate patients from diverse financial backgrounds.

• Provide clear information on NHS Entitlements: Educate patients, especially migrants and socially excluded groups, about their rights to NHS dental care and how to access services.

• Cultural competency training: Enhance your team's understanding of different cultural practices and beliefs related to oral health, ensuring respectful and effective communication.

4. Promote Collaboration

Oral health is intrinsically linked to overall health. Collaborating with other healthcare professionals can lead to comprehensive patient care:

• Work with general practitioners: If possible, establish straightforward, well-communicated processes for referring patients between your practice and the local GP practices, making it easier for patients to navigate care when oral health issues may signal or exacerbate medical conditions.

• Engage with dietitians and pharmacists: Develop joint initiatives to educate patients on the effects of diet, smoking, and alcohol on oral health.

Stay Informed to Strengthen Patient Care

Staying up to date with the latest research, public health initiatives, and policy changes is essential for dentists who want to support their communities. Understanding shifts in NHS dental services, new guidelines on preventive care, or developments in water fluoridation can help dentists offer patients the most accurate advice and advocate for improvements in care through day-to-day conversations.

Engaging with professional bodies, reading industry publications, and attending relevant workshops are simple ways to stay informed — ensuring that dentists can confidently guide patients and contribute to a healthier, more informed public.

Want To Do More? Join The Give Kids A Smile Initiative

For practices looking to make an even bigger impact, the Give Kids a Smile (GKAS) initiative helps vulnerable children access dental care they might not otherwise receive.

Launched in the UK in 2023, GKAS connects practices with children who aren’t seeing an NHS dentist, offering free care and brushing packs through industry partnerships — making dental visits a positive, potentially life-changing experience.

Later this year we will be searching for new practices to join this initiative, so watch this space for news!