Oral health is recognized as a basic Human Right and a fundamental aspect of overall health and well-being. Despite all the evidence, oral health services are not included in the benefit coverage of Universal Health Coverage programs in many countries. In countries where some coverage exists, essential preventive and clinical services show large gaps, especially for vulnerable, disadvantaged, rural, or poorer populations.

In March 2023, FDI organized a full-day roundtable to review existing evidence on the challenges of universal access to oral care. Participants discussed what constitutes appropriate access to oral care, and reviewed replicable best practices for expanding access to oral care through integration into primary health care systems, including underserved populations.

This podcast covers the perspectives of three experts representing different fields of practice (clinical practice and service management, policy analysis, and advocacy and academia). Tony and guests’ discussion provides a robust picture of the key elements of appropriate access to oral care.

In this episode: 

• Learn bout the role of perfectionism in contributing to stress and burnout in dentistry and how to balance high standards with mental well-being. 
• Understand the impact of a consumerist healthcare model and its pressure on dental professionals, and how emotional exhaustion affects not only practitioners' well-being but also patient care and clinical outcomes. 
• Learn how to create a supportive, psychologically safe environment in the workplace by fostering open communication and collegiality. 

The experts share some practical tips for self-care and call you to prioritize your mental health and well-being, just as you advise your patients.

Visit the Dental check-up website.