Oral health inequalities-Developments in research, policy and practice over the last 50 years.

ABSTRACT

At times of major geopolitical conflict, macroeconomic crisis and the 'aftershocks' of the COVID-19 syndemic still having a global impact, it is the most vulnerable and disadvantaged in society who undoubtedly suffer the most. During these turbulent and uncertain times, it is essential that sufficient policy attention is given to tackling the persistent and stark health inequalities that exist both between and within countries. This commentary aims to critically reflect on developments in oral health inequalities research, policy and practice over the last 50 years. Despite often challenging political contexts, progress has undoubtedly been made in our understanding of the nature and underlying social, economic and political causes of oral health inequalities. A developing body of global research has highlighted patterns of inequalities in oral health that exist across the lifecourse, but less progress has been made in implementing and evaluating policy interventions to tackle these unfair and unjust inequalities in oral health. At a global level through WHO leadership, oral health is at a 'tipping point' with a unique window of opportunity for policy change and development. Transformative policy and system reforms co-produced with community and other key stakeholders are now urgently needed to tackle oral health inequalities.