Oral health across the life course: A role for social work

Abstract

Oral health has improved, but oral diseases are the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide. The definition of oral health is now more inclusive of quality of life and functioning beyond the care of teeth and oral health more broadly defined as an interaction with mental and physical health. An understanding of oral health needs to be had by all members of a treatment team including social workers in much the same way social workers need a basic knowledge of physical health care. The current movement towards interprofessional care and more integrated care, challenges social workers to understand both physical and oral health. This paper discusses oral health with a life course perspective, while addressing social determinants to provide a foundation of oral issues individuals may encounter. Social work brings a unique set of skills to the interdisciplinary team. Social workers can support, advocate, counsel, and refer patients who need oral interventions.

Keywords

• oral health
• life course
• interprofessional care
• oral care
• social determinants