Enhancing Oral Health Literacy- A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

BackgroundOral health literacy (OHL) is an integral aspect of public health, necessary for individuals to make well-informed choices about their dental health. There is a correlation between low OHL and negative oral health outcomes, such as increased prevalence of periodontal disease, dental caries, and tooth loss. Understanding and improving OHL is vital for reducing health disparities and promoting equity in oral health care. This review aims to examine the current state of OHL research, evaluate the effectiveness of different interventions designed to improve OHL, and provide recommendations for future initiatives.Materials and MethodsA thorough literature search was performed utilizing databases including MEDLINE, Scopus, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library. The search included keywords related to OHL, oral health disparities, preventive dental practices, and oral health outcomes. Studies published in English from 2000 to 2024 were included. Data extraction focused on study design, population characteristics, OHL measurement tools, interventions, and outcomes.ResultsFrom 1500 initial articles, 300 were screened, and 15 met the inclusion criteria. These studies covered various aspects of OHL, including measurement tool development, intervention evaluations, and the association between OHL and outcomes of oral health. Key findings indicated that higher OHL is related with improved oral health actions and outcomes, and targeted interventions can significantly improve OHL.ConclusionsImproving OHL is essential for enhancing oral health outcomes and reducing disparities. Effective interventions include educational programs, community-based initiatives, and culturally sensitive communication strategies. Future research should focus on developing standardized measurement tools and evaluating the long-term impact of OHL interventions.