HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Which of the following factors contributes to oral health disparities?

1. Access to care

2. Type of dental insurance

3. Personal hygiene practices

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: Access to care

The correct choice highlights access to care as a significant factor contributing to oral health disparities. Access to care encompasses various elements such as availability of dental services, geographical location, socioeconomic status, and the ability to afford treatment. Individuals in underserved or rural areas may face challenges in finding dental providers, and those with limited financial means might delay or avoid seeking necessary dental care entirely. This lack of access can lead to untreated dental issues, worsening oral health, and increased disparities among different population groups. While the other factors—type of dental insurance and personal hygiene practices—also play roles in oral health disparities, they are often influenced by the broader context of access to care. For instance, individuals with limited insurance options may struggle to find affordable dental services, and personal hygiene practices can be affected by a person’s education and resources available to them. However, the fundamental barrier that can encompass various aspects of oral health access and utilization is primarily rooted in the ability to receive care. Thus, emphasizing access to care as a critical factor helps to understand and address the multifaceted nature of oral health disparities.