Oral Health of Underserved and Vulnerable Populations

This chapter addresses the oral health of underserved and vulnerable populations, highlighting the disparities in access to dental care and the impact of these inequalities on health outcomes. It explores the contributing factors, including socioeconomic barriers, lack of education, and geographic isolation, that prevent these populations from receiving adequate oral healthcare. The chapter also discusses strategies for improving oral health among these groups, including community health programs, mobile dental clinics, and the use of tele-dentistry. Furthermore, it examines the role of healthcare policies and interventions aimed at increasing accessibility and affordability of dental services for vulnerable populations. By providing an overview of innovative models and interventions, the chapter emphasizes the importance of comprehensive healthcare strategies to ensure equitable oral health for all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic or geographical background.