Study Finds Link Between Oral Health and Social Wellbeing Among Indigenous Australians

"The mouth is the gateway to your body."

Oral Health, Wellbeing, and the Link to Chronic Disease in Indigenous Australian Adults

A new study published in the Medical Journal of Australia explores the deep connections between oral health, general health, and social and emotional wellbeing among Indigenous Australian adults. The research, conducted through discussions with 136 Indigenous South Australian adults, reveals critical insights into this complex relationship.

Participants consistently reported a strong link between oral health and overall physical health. The appearance of teeth, gums, and smiles was found to directly affect social and emotional wellbeing. Many participants described experiencing judgment or discrimination in social situations based on the look of their teeth.

"Oral health affects emotion, vanity, and ego... impacting social and emotional wellbeing big time."

Shame—referred to by participants as a "shame-job"—was identified as a major barrier to accessing dental care. However, participants expressed that culturally safe, non-judgmental care could significantly improve outcomes. One participant succinctly stated, "good teeth changes your life."

Participants also saw great value in services that combine oral health care with chronic disease screening, such as checks for blood glucose and cholesterol.

The study provides crucial context for these findings. Indigenous Australians experience higher rates of untreated tooth decay, tooth loss, and toothache compared to non-Indigenous Australians. Researchers attribute this oral health gap to colonization, systemic discrimination, and a lack of access to culturally safe, affordable dental care. This is set against a broader backdrop where Indigenous Australians have a life expectancy 8-9 years lower than non-Indigenous people and bear a higher burden of chronic diseases.

To address these challenges, the study recommends several holistic approaches:

• Mobile and at-home health assessments that combine oral and general health checks to destigmatize care.
• Integrating oral health with chronic disease assessment in primary health services, particularly Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations.
• Fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and providing training in oral health promotion for healthcare practitioners and Indigenous health workers.

The research was a collaborative effort involving Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, Elders, Indigenous participants, and dental practitioners. The health assessments included checks for blood glucose, inflammation, cholesterol, and kidney function.