Social Determinants of Oral Health in Older Adults
Summary
Oral health in later life is shaped by a complex interplay of social, economic and environmental factors that extend well beyond individual hygiene practices. Socioeconomic status influences access to preventive care and restorative dentistry, while educational attainment affects awareness of oral health’s importance. Social participation and community cohesion foster supportive networks that encourage healthy behaviours and timely use of dental services. Conversely, social isolation, poverty and inadequate health infrastructure contribute to higher rates of tooth loss, untreated decay and periodontal disease among older adults. Cultural norms, rural–urban divides and health-care policy further modulate these relationships, resulting in marked inequalities both within and between countries. Recognising the broader social context of ageing is therefore essential for designing interventions that reduce disparities, preserve natural dentition and enhance quality of life in diverse older populations.
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Social Determinants of Oral Health in Older Adults publication trend
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Technical terms
Social participation: Engagement in formal or informal group activities that foster interaction and support among individuals.
Social capital: Resources accessed through social networks, encompassing structural dimensions (participation, volunteering) and functional dimensions (emotional support, trust).
Edentulism: The condition of having lost all natural teeth.
Social isolation: A state characterised by infrequent social contacts and lack of supportive relationships.
Oral health-related quality of life: The perceived impact of oral conditions on everyday activities, social roles and overall well-being.
References
- Reducing Oral Health Disparities: A Focus on Social and Cultural Determinants. BMC Oral Health (2006).
- Association between Social Participation and Remaining Teeth and Urban–Rural Difference among Older Adults in China. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2023).
- Examining the associations between oral health and social isolation: A cross-national comparative study between Japan and England. Social Science & Medicine (2021).
- Is Social Capital a Determinant of Oral Health among Older Adults? Findings from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. PLOS ONE (2015).
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