28 April 2023

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Benevis spotlights diversity in dentistry, dental health disparities

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Benevis, a leading DSO for practices focused on dental care and orthodontics, announced in an April 20 news release its support for National Minority Health Month, which is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health (OMH). 

Clinicians and others across the country have dedicated April to highlighting the need to improve the health of racial and ethnic minorities, American Indian and Alaska Native communities, and to reduce health disparities. Poor oral health is a primary marker of social inequality, and Benevis aims to be a leader in addressing the social, economic and environmental barriers that inhibit dental care.

The theme for National Minority Health Month 2023 is “Better Health Through Better Understanding.” 

According to a news release, Benevis has a 20-year history of understanding the needs of underserved patient populations by providing high-quality care to approximately five million children and adults in disadvantaged communities. The DSO recognizes that not all Americans have equal access to dental care and orthodontics. That is why Benevis has made its mission to improve access and affordability to essential dental healthcare and create dental homes for diverse patient populations with or without various forms of insurance, including Medicaid.

Tara McCarthy, VP of marketing and community relations at Benevis, said in the news release that health care providers should continue to educate their patients on the importance of preventive dental care and provide appropriate referrals for those who may not have access to care. 

“With continued effort, we can help close the dental health disparity gap and ensure that all children have access to quality oral health care,” she said in the news release.

The state of oral health in the U.S.

A child’s race or ethnicity can significantly impact their oral health. Studies have found that minority children are more likely to suffer from tooth decay and other oral health issues than White children. 

Minorities are also less likely to receive routine dental care or preventive treatments such as fluoride varnish, sealants and dental sealers. Minority children, including Mexican American, non-Hispanic Black, American Indian and Alaskan Native children, are also more likely to experience disparities in the quality of dental care they receive compared to White children.

Benevis will deliver on its mission to expand access to compassionate, high-quality oral care and will provide free dental treatment to uninsured families during Sharing Smiles Day on Sunday, May 21, 2023.

Dentists and hygienists in 28 locally branded Benevis dental practices across 11 states will conduct dental exams, limited emergency care, extractions and restorative care, with cleanings offered on a limited basis. It is recommended that patients make an appointment.

Benevis encourages other dentists and DSOs to expand their reach and to help close the divide in quality oral care for minority populations. Diversifying the existing workforce of dental professionals to better support the demographics of underserved communities could also help to improve oral healthcare in disadvantaged populations.

To get started, Benevis has provided the following educational resources:

• "Addressing Social Determinants of Health to Improve Dental Health Equity in Children." In this white paper, Benevis addresses the effects social determinants of health (SDOH) have on children’s oral health and what can be done to improve these devastating health disparities. By working with policymakers, healthcare providers, medical professionals, educators, and others, we can ensure that no child is left behind when it comes to achieving good oral health.

Infographics

• Diversity in Dentistry: Where We Are and Why it Matters.
• Dental Health Disparities: Greater for Minority Kids and Adults.