How young people can keep their teeth healthy – despite living in poverty
The ability to acquire and use health information, parental support, and encouragement from friends and community groups all contribute to good oral health among young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds, according to a new thesis from Malmö University.
Tooth decay (caries) is a global challenge and a condition that more often affects people with poorer social and economic circumstances, even in Sweden where children and adolescents have access to free dental care.
We need to carry out health promotion work in various contexts outside of dental care to reach more groups.
Marie Nordström
At the same time, knowledge is limited regarding which protective factors, known as salutogenic health resources, can improve oral health in this group.
“Previously, research has focused on risk factors. Now, instead, we have tried to identify and study various health-promoting factors in young adults who do not have caries, despite a low socio-economic background,” says Marie Nordström, a dentist and recent PhD graduate at the Faculty of Odontology.
As part of her doctoral thesis, Nordström has conducted several studies in Sweden and South Africa, including two qualitative interview studies and a questionnaire survey. The results show that there are factors relating to the individual, the family, social networks, and society at large –all can contribute to good oral health.
At the individual level, factors such as the perception of having control over one’s own health, self-esteem, good stress management, and the ability to acquire and use health information have been shown to have positive effects on oral health. In one of the studies, this was observed only among young people born in Sweden or who had immigrated during their pre-school years, which may suggest that targeted interventions need to be better adapted to those who immigrate at school age.
The family, in turn, plays a key role in this context through stable and secure relationships and in establishing healthy routines during childhood, such as regular eating habits and good oral hygiene. Furthermore, parents’ continued support and guidance during the teenage years help young adults to develop their own health strategies and take responsibility for their oral health throughout their lives.
A supportive social network comprising friends, neighbours, and community groups can also contribute to healthier behaviour, better personal oral hygiene, and the ability to cope with setbacks. This may involve support and encouragement that help to boost motivation and self-confidence. In addition, teachers, dieticians, and dental care staff, can play a significant role in health communication and in promoting good health habits.
“We need to carry out health promotion work in various contexts outside of dental care to reach more groups. This is to help reduce the health gap and ensure that more people enjoy good oral health.
“This could involve early interventions to support parents in their parenting role and to give children equal opportunities for good oral health,” adds Nordström.
