Mobile dentistry is an innovative concept designed to cater to the needs of under-served communities, especially those found in rural and low-income areas. Since poor oral health is prevalent amongst certain underrepresented groups, mobile dentistry is valuable for promoting health equity.
Mobile dentistry aims to make dental healthcare more accessible by directly bringing dental services to the community. Portable dental equipment and tools are carried in vans to deliver dental healthcare to those in need. According to the CDC, 57 million Americans lack access to quality dental care. Therefore, mobile dentistry can effectively reduce oral health disparities and ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to access quality dental care regardless of location and income.
How Does Mobile Dentistry Work?
Mobile dentistry involves the use of fully equipped mobile dental units. These units are equipped with all the necessary tools and equipment to deliver quality dental care, such as portable dental chairs, delivery systems, x-rays, and sterilization machines. The mobile units travel to areas where dental health is either inaccessible or scarce.
A variety of dental treatments and procedures can be carried out with the help of these mobile units, such as regular dental checkups, tooth extractions, cavity fillings, the application of dental sealants to prevent caries (tooth decay), and even root canals in some cases. Moreover, the dental health professionals traveling in these mobile dental units play a significant role in educating the communities about oral health, dental diseases, and the consequences of neglecting oral hygiene.
The Need for Mobile Dentistry in Underserved Areas
Between 2016 and 2021, a 10% decrease in dental visits has been seen in low-income populations, according to the CDC. There is also a 67% shortage of dental health professionals in rural settings. These statistics indicate the need to bridge the gap between such disparities, and mobile dentistry can play an important role by offering numerous benefits.
Enhancing Oral Health Education
Dental visits are far less common in rural and low-income settings than in urban ones; thus, oral health education stands at a brittle edge. With an adequate understanding of oral health, communities are likely to implement basic protocols that can easily prevent the onset of dental diseases.
Enhancing Accessibility and Convenience
Due to their mobile and portable nature, mobile dental units can easily overcome many geographical barriers to allow underserved populations access to quality dental care. This particularly applies to geriatric and retired individuals who require the added convenience that comes with mobile dentistry — whether in the form of consultations or treatment.
Addressing the Lack of Access to Fluoridated Water
Water fluoridation is an excellent public health intervention to prevent dental diseases, especially caries (tooth decay). According to the West Virginia Rural Health Research Center, under-served communities and rural areas rely on domestic wells for water extraction, which have yet to be supplemented with Fluoride. Mobile dentistry enables the delivery of education on fluoride supplementation and preventive treatments, such as sealants and varnishes.
Tackling the Lack of Dental Health Coverage
According to the CDC, dental cavities are 2-3 times more common in low-income households as compared to high-income households. Mostly because low-income households are less likely to be offered dental health coverage by their employers. Cost and geographical barriers play a significant role in preventing affected communities from seeking quality dental care. Mobile dental units can provide accessible and subsidized dental services.
Lowering rates of Oral Cancer due to High Tobacco Use
The use of tobacco is higher in low-income and rural communities, posing them with a dire risk of oral cancer. Through mobile dentistry, proper education and preventative measures can be relayed to such populations to prevent the occurrence of oral cancer.
The Future and Potential of Mobile Dentistry
Statistics and demands demonstrate a highly positive outlook for the growth of mobile dentistry in the coming years. With the ever-evolving landscape of dentistry amidst technological advancements, mobile dentistry is expected to experience a significantly upward trend. According to verified market reports, the Mobile Dental Unit Market was valued at $1.6 Billion in 2023. By 2030, it is projected to reach $5.9 Billion. This means that it will experience a compound annual growth rate of 30% between 2024 and 2030.
Key Takeaway
Mobile dentistry is shaping the landscape of dentistry and healthcare dynamics. By directly providing dental services to underserved communities with ease and convenience, mobile dentistry is creating a more equitable society. Due to its numerous benefits and cost-effectiveness, it forecasts a promising future in the Mobile Dental Unit Market and healthcare industry.
This article was written for WHN by Staccy Minty who is a passionate writer who finds joy in exploring the intricate connections between health and mindfulness. With a deep appreciation for the transformative power of meditation, she crafts articles that inspire readers to embrace wellness and self-care. Staccy’s writing is rooted in research and her personal journey toward balanced living. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her meditating in serene settings or discovering new ways to promote holistic health. Through her work, Staccy Minty aims to empower individuals to lead health.
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References/Sources/Materials provided by:
https://worldhealth.net/news/most-common-dental-and-oral-hygiene-mistakes/
https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/health-equity/index.html
https://www.ruralhealthresearch.org
https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/data-research/facts-stats/fast-facts-cavities.
https://www.lung.org/research/sotc/by-the-numbers/top-10-populations-affected.
https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/u-s-dental-market-107898
