Access to oral health care is a major issue worldwide. Many people struggle to get the care they need, prompting brands to take part in initiatives that aim to enhance access and promote holistic oral health care.
On World Oral Health Day, we spoke with Jayant Singh, the global head of Oral Health at Haleon, which owns well-known brands like Sensodyne and Polident. Singh highlighted the critical gaps in oral health care and the inequalities that arise from a lack of access to dental services.
“When we discuss access, we’re really talking about whether people can maintain good oral health throughout their lives,” Singh explained. Currently, only about 23% of people worldwide have adequate access to oral health services. As a result, daily self-care is crucial for good oral health.
One significant barrier to universal oral health is low health literacy. Singh noted, “If people lack the knowledge to navigate health care systems or manage their conditions, their health outcomes suffer.” He emphasized that companies in the personal care sector must promote oral health equity as a comprehensive issue. It’s about giving people the resources and knowledge to take charge of their health.
Prevention plays a key role here. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste can prevent gum disease and tooth decay, yet only two-thirds of adults do this regularly. Singh believes that teaching healthy habits from a young age is essential to avoid problems later in life.
### The State of Oral Health
Singh pointed out that oral diseases are among the most common yet preventable conditions, affecting around 3.7 billion people globally. Approximately 75% of individuals show signs of sensitive teeth, and over half of adults experience gum issues. Unfortunately, those in lower socio-economic backgrounds often face the most significant challenges in accessing care.
“Poor oral health leads to serious consequences,” Singh said. Communities with limited dental services and low health literacy often see higher rates of untreated tooth decay and gum disease. Factors such as tobacco use and high sugar diets compound these problems.
People in economic hardship often prioritize basic needs over preventive oral care, but neglecting oral health leads to more serious and costly issues down the line. Singh highlighted that treatment costs can be 50% higher for lower-income individuals, which deepens inequality.
### What Can Businesses Do?
The private sector has a unique opportunity to improve oral health access in underserved communities. Singh shared how Haleon approaches its equity initiatives.
Self-care is a vital first step. Singh mentioned the company’s efforts to increase oral health literacy, particularly among underserved populations. “Inclusive policies and community-based programs can make a difference,” he said.
Studies indicate that improving health literacy by just 25% can save up to 0.5% of GDP in certain markets, showcasing the potential impact. However, Singh emphasized that collaboration is essential. “To truly improve oral health literacy, we need to join forces with other organizations and health professionals.”
Programs like Aquafresh Shine Bright in the UK aim to educate young students about oral health. In Poland, Haleon collaborates with governmental bodies to deliver oral care education in primary schools. These initiatives showcase how businesses can break down barriers and promote better daily oral health.
In summary, the path to better oral health requires more than just treatment; it calls for widespread education, collaboration, and a commitment to equity. As we’ve seen, small changes can lead to significant impacts over time.
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Oral Health, Haleon, Oral Care Access, Health Equity,
