Marginalised and underserved populations often experience a disproportionate burden of oral diseases, reflecting broader social and structural inequities.1,2 In Malaysia, oral health inequalities remain entrenched, particularly among marginalised groups such as the Orang Asli (OA) communities. These Indigenous peoples, comprising 0.7% of the national population, experience a disproportionate burden of oral diseases and have limited access to healthcare services.3 Additional barriers such as low oral health literacy, geographic isolation, and persistent socioeconomic disadvantage further compound these disparities.4,5 These inequities reflect deeper structural and social disparities, contravening the principles of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10: Reduced Inequalities.
Addressing such disparities requires approaches that extend beyond traditional clinical delivery models. One promising, yet underutilised, avenue is to strengthen family cohesion as a driver of oral health promotion. Families are primary units of behavioural modelling, socialisation, and decision-making. Interventions that are designed with this in mind and embedded within family structures are more likely to result in sustained behaviour change.6
Bridge and Theriault (2023) have proposed a robust policy framework to improve oral health in rural settings. Their recommendations include incentivising dental professionals to serve in underserved areas, expanding telehealth services, and deploying mobile clinics to reach remote communities.2 These structural measures are essential, but they should be complemented by family-based strategies that situate oral health within the cultural and familial fabric of communities. In populations with strong kinship ties, intergenerational communication and family role-modelling can extend the reach and impact of oral health education far beyond top-down messaging.
We call for greater investment in community-based models that incorporate family cohesion into oral health promotion, supported by collaboration across health, education, and community sectors. Recognising oral health as part of holistic wellbeing, not just a clinical issue, offers a more equitable path forward. In line with SDG 10, we must act to reduce disparities, empower families, and leave no community behind.
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Fahimi, N., Luai, A., Sabri, B. et al. The missing piece in oral health equity. Br Dent J 239, 520–521 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-025-9310-2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-025-9310-2
