Oral Health Equity & Social Determinants of Health

Welcome to the Oral Health Equity & Social Determinants of Health research guide!

This guide:

1. Provides resources for oral health equity, social determinants of health (SDOH), health disparities, diversity, and inclusion in dental education and practice.
2. Supports dental faculty in integrating issues related to oral health equity and social determinants of health into their courses. 
3. Aligns with USC's unifying value of diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

The American Dental Association defines Health Equity as optimal health for all people, and strives to address the inequities that exist in oral health care through member education, public awareness, legislative awareness, and organizational engagement.   

Overall Goal of Oral Health Equity = Reduction of Oral Health Disparities

Action Plan:

1. Improve Data Collection and Research 
2. Advocate to positively impact Social Determinants of Health 
3. Reinforce the important role of oral health within overall health 
4. Support Cultural Competency and Diversity in Dentistry  
5. Support Equitable Access to Care Programs  

The Institute of Healthcare Improvement (IHI) has developed guidance on how health care organizations can reduce health disparities related to racial or ethnic group; religion; socioeconomic status; gender; age; mental health; cognitive, sensory, or physical disability; sexual orientation or gender identity; geographic location; or other characteristics historically linked to discrimination or exclusion.

The Boston Public Health Commission's health equity framework shows how racism and other systems of oppression have an independent influence on all social determinants of health. It also shows how these systems of oppression have a direct impact on health outcomes.