The Public Health Approach to Oral Health: A Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Oral health (OH) has evolved beyond dental concerns to encompass psychosocial dimensions and overall well-being. This study reviews OH strategies within a public health framework to identify key elements for effective OH promotion. Methods: A literature review following PRISMA guidelines identified 42 relevant articles from 62 screened. Five themes emerged: group-level, individual-level, policy-level (emphasizing devising OH policies), healthcare delivery, and communication. Common components included OH education, behaviour change, access to OH services, and policy integration. Results: Thematic analysis identified five overarching themes in oral health (OH) promotion strategies, with a focus on tailored approaches for specific populations and components such as education, access to services, interventions, and policy, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of OH promotion. Conclusion: Effective OH promotion requires a multifaceted approach and tailored strategies with interprofessional collaboration. Future research should focus on cost-effectiveness and user-friendly resources for OH professionals and policymakers.