Leadership: How to Address Routine Oral Care in Rural Areas of the United States

Finding Ways to Reduce the Amount of Pain Mangement Dental Treatment in Rural Areas

The problem lies in the fact that there is a significant disparity in oral health education across various regions of the United States. This uneven access to vital information leads to stark differences in dental health outcomes, especially in underserved communities, where individuals often face a lack of awareness about preventive dental care and challenges related to food and nutrition insecurity. This combination of factors not only hinders their understanding of essential oral health practices but also contributes to a cycle of poor health outcomes, making it even more critical to address these gaps in education and support.

Your Mouth is a Window into the Health of Your Body

-Dr. Esteban Garza

Background

Growing up, dental care was a fundamental priority in my household, even during financially challenging times. My mom worked tirelessly, often scraping together pennies to ensure I could get braces after the orthodontist warned that neglecting my teeth could lead to serious health issues. This experience instilled in me a deep understanding of the importance of preventative care. However, it also made me aware of the stark reality that many families in my hometown didn’t share this priority. In a community where meeting basic needs often took precedence, I saw how families struggled to provide proper nutrition, making dental care seem like a luxury. When the focus is on securing food and shelter, oral health easily becomes an afterthought. This dual challenge of accessing healthy food and dental services created a cycle of neglect that many couldn’t escape, highlighting the disparities in healthcare that shaped my understanding of community needs.

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, several key factors act as significant barriers to oral health care in rural areas, including a lack of dental education and elevated poverty rates (National Advisory Committee on Rural Health and Human Services). The limited acceptance of Medicaid among dental providers exacerbates these challenges, as there is a noticeable lack of awareness regarding the benefits of routine care in these communities. This contributes to an inequitable access to care, forcing families to navigate numerous obstacles just to secure a basic cleaning which leads to about ¼ of US adults who have untreated tooth decay (Espeso). Overall, this situation is unsustainable and detrimental to the future of oral health and overall health outcomes in these underserved regions.

While I’ve previously highlighted the connection between good oral health and overall well-being, the implications of this relationship are intricate and far-reaching. A wealth of research demonstrates that many common health issues trace back to the oral cavity, primarily due to the essential nutrients and vitamins that begin their journey in our mouths through the food and water we consume. One significant correlation is between oral health and serious conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease (Espeso). Poor oral hygiene can lead to systemic inflammation, exacerbating these diseases and creating a vicious cycle of declining health. Additionally, oral health issues can result in complications like dehydration, malnutrition, and difficulties with eating and swallowing (Espeso). These problems affect more people than we might realize, especially in rural areas where access to dental care and health education is limited. Addressing these disparities is crucial; improving oral health in these communities could significantly enhance overall health outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and improve quality of life. A comprehensive approach to oral health promotion and disease prevention is essential for ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to achieve and maintain optimal health.

To address these critical issues, the National Advisory Committee has proposed various grants, scholarships, and research initiatives aimed at bridging the gap in oral health care access. However, a significant number of individuals remain unaware of the educational opportunities available to them. This lack of awareness hinders progress. Therefore, the proposed solution outlined below seeks to provide clearer guidance and resources to help the general population in rural areas access affordable and preventive care more effectively.

Solution

Acquire essential insights and provide resources for communities in towns where dental care is not prioritized.

To address the disparities in dental health outcomes caused by uneven access to vital information, I will initiate a comprehensive effort to improve dental care for all age groups in underserved rural areas. My first step will be to build strong connections with a network of local dentists, allowing me to gain insight into the specific populations they serve and the unique challenges they face. By collaborating with these professionals, I aim to identify critical gaps in preventive care and nutrition education. Understanding the profound impact that routine dental care has on overall systemic health, I am committed to actively learning about and addressing these community needs to promote better health outcomes for all.

I will also actively collaborate with local legislators and community leaders to identify and leverage available resources that support both nutrition and dental care. This partnership is crucial, as the interconnectedness of these two areas plays a vital role in maintaining a stable and healthy lifestyle for families. Without access to adequate nutrition and dental care, it becomes increasingly challenging for individuals to achieve and sustain their overall well-being. By fostering these collaborations, I aim to create a more supportive environment that empowers individuals and their families to thrive.

Promoting awareness in these areas can be effectively achieved by conducting patient surveys to assess the specific needs of the community. Accompanying these surveys, I will distribute informative flyers that serve as comprehensive guides, outlining essential resources for improving oral health and nutrition. These materials will not only educate individuals about the benefits of good dental care but also provide practical tools to help them achieve their health goals. Recognizing that dental care can be costly and may not be a priority for many, these resources are designed to alleviate some of the financial burden and ensure that families can prioritize their oral health. Ultimately, this initiative aims to protect the smiles of future generations by fostering a culture of proactive dental care and nutrition awareness.

Implementing the Solution

I would reach out to a few local dentists, some in private practice, corporate, and community health dentistry in the Columbia area who serve in underserved areas and collect a survey about their experience treating patients and have a survey for the patients as well. This will include questions based on percentages that their patients attend routine cleanings (2 per year), their type of payment (insurance, private or Medicaid, or self-pay), their ability to receive proper treatment, and their feelings on how important routine dental care is to them. This will also incorporate a section dedicated to both physical and mental well-being, along with questions that assess overall oral health. Recognizing the interconnectedness of these aspects allows us to obtain a more holistic understanding of individuals' health experiences. Another section of the survey will focus on food security, asking participants about their experiences over the past year. Key questions will explore whether they have worried about running out of food, skipped meals due to affordability concerns, and faced challenges in finding the necessary food for themselves and their families.
I would create a detailed comparison of the responses from various dental offices, analyzing them in relation to the patient demographics, average income levels in those areas, and the findings from the survey. This analysis will enable us to draw meaningful conclusions about how oral health care is prioritized in communities where it may not be viewed as a critical concern. By examining these relationships, we can better understand the factors that influence perceptions of oral health and identify potential areas for improvement in access and education.
Next, I will conduct thorough research on various programs—whether state, federal, or nonprofit—that provide support for individuals facing challenges related to dental care and food security. This information will be compiled into a comprehensive brochure to be distributed alongside a post-survey pamphlet. By doing so, we aim to enhance access to essential resources and education for those in greatest need. This brochure will not only serve as a vital tool for informing individuals about available assistance but will also emphasize the importance of oral health in relation to overall mental and physical well-being. It will highlight the critical value of preventive care as a more effective and sustainable approach compared to pain management, ultimately fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of dental care, nutrition, and well-being.
To effectively evaluate the impact of my flyer distribution on oral health awareness and access to dental care, I plan to revisit the dental offices six to twelve months later. During these follow-up visits, I will engage with various age groups to assess their understanding of how oral health is integral to overall well-being. I will inquire about their ability to schedule and attend general cleanings, as well as to address items on their treatment plans. Additionally, I will check on their basic necessities, such as food and water, to gain a comprehensive view of their overall health. By comparing these results with data collected before the distribution of my brochures, I will be able to measure any improvements in both knowledge and access to dental care. To encourage participation and express gratitude for their involvement, each participant will receive a new toothbrush and toothpaste for their family, reinforcing the message of the importance of daily dental hygiene!

Conclusion

In the end, I am deeply committed to giving back to underserved communities when I become a dentist. There is often a lack of emphasis on the importance of providing vital resources and the necessary equipment to improve dental care, which ultimately can transform lives, one smile at a time. If every dentist dedicated just one weekend a year to offer free dental care and education, the impact could be profound and far-reaching, fostering healthier communities and greater awareness of oral health. Recognizing that not everyone may take this initiative, I feel a compelling responsibility to make a long-term commitment to serve these areas throughout my career. My focus will always be on enhancing education, delivering effective treatment, and promoting the overall health of patients and their families. By prioritizing these elements, I aim to create a lasting positive change, ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need for a healthier future.

References:

Espeso, Natalie. “Maintaining Oral Health Is Essential to Well-Being.” Pharmacy Times, 17 February 2022, https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/maintaining-oral-health-is-essential-to-well-being. Accessed 1 November 2024.

National Advisory Committee on Rural Health and Human Services. “Improving Oral Health Care Services in Rural America.” HRSA, 2 December 2018, https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/advisory-committees/rural/2018-oral-health-policy-brief.pdf. Accessed 31 October 2024.

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