Older adults and the disparity in oral health status; the problem and innovative ways to address it

Abstract

Abstract The impact of oral health inequalities on one’s ability to maintain good oral health is cumulative throughout life and accentuated in older age groups. While studies on factors influencing the decisions made by elders to seek dental care have been conducted in Israel and worldwide, the issue of access to and provision of dental care is complex. However, the need to address oral health issues is being voiced in high-level international meetings and there was never a better momentum to rethink the current oral health care delivery model beyond issues related solely to accessibility. Here we outline unique opportunities to ensure sustainable models of preventive services and oral health the effects of which would be amplified in concert with increases in the availability universal dental healthcare.

Keywords

• Oral health
• Older adults
• Universal care
• Progressive universalism
• Preventive dental care