Why Oral Health Deserves a Seat at the Global Health Table

Abstract

Oral diseases affect billions worldwide yet remain sidelined in both national and global health policies. This oversight has perpetuated disparities in care access, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The separation of oral health from broader healthcare systems is illogical and dangerous, given oral health's deep connections to systemic health. This commentary calls for the integration of oral health into primary care and its recognition as a fundamental health right. Essential dental services must be incorporated into universal health coverage (UHC), financial barriers dismantled, and policy frameworks updated. A paradigm shift is essential to position oral health at the heart of global health policy and noncommunicable disease (NCD) prevention strategies.