Sustainable Development Goals and Oral Health: A Forsaken Link

Adopted by the UN in 2015, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework serves as a worldwide roadmap for securing a more sustainable and prosperous future for all. The 17 SDGs, which are a strong call to action for all nations, developed and developing, in a global coalition, are at the center of it. While addressing climate change and advocating for the protection of our oceans and forests, they also recognize the interconnection of initiatives aimed at decreasing inequality, improving health and education, eliminating poverty and other forms of deprivation, and fostering economic growth. These 169 targets/goals, which are expected to be fulfilled by 2030, urge cooperation to bring about universal peace, prosperity, and well-being.

Zero hunger, poverty eradication, gender equality, potable water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, industry and innovation, reduced inequality, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, climate action, life below water, life on land, peace, and justice, and partnerships for attaining these goals are the main objectives of the SDGs. Even though the 17 SDGs of the UN do not specifically address oral health, their interconnectedness makes it impossible to discount the importance of oral health in achieving universal health coverage and enhancing general well-being. Comprehending these links opens the door to all-encompassing solutions that fit into the larger SDG framework. Together, we can develop effective techniques that not only enhance oral health but also significantly lessen the burden of oral illnesses worldwide.

Oral health is impacted by each SDG and vice versa. For example, addressing poverty (SDG 1) can close the access gap to dental care, guaranteeing that people can receive the necessary treatment without being hindered by financial constraints. Similarly, as nutritional inadequacies can raise the risk of dental illnesses, addressing hunger (SDG 2) helps lessen the impact of malnutrition on oral health. We can lessen the burden of noncommunicable diseases, a major goal under SDG 3, by giving priority to preventative oral health care.

Dental professionals must pursue ongoing education and professional growth to stay current with emerging technologies. They ought to fund mentorship initiatives and chances for further education. These initiatives offer lifelong learning pathways to aid in the development of dental professionals, which is in line with SDG 4 (Quality Education). In addition, advancing social justice and gender equality (SDGs 5 and 6) is essential. Better access to education and employment possibilities for women has a direct impact on maternal health, which in turn helps to avoid dental cavities in young children. To reduce the environmental impact of oral healthcare, dental offices must incorporate SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy). The dentistry profession can make a substantial contribution to global sustainability initiatives by adopting sustainable practices and renewable energy solutions, ensuring that the delivery of care does not jeopardize the health of our planet.

A flourishing dentistry industry promotes respectable employment opportunities, equitable pay, moral working conditions, a productive workplace, and economic growth through innovation and job creation that align with SDG 8 and build a sustainable future for all parties. The development of noninvasive methods for identifying and treating dental conditions can result from investments in infrastructure, technology, and innovation (SDG 9), improving the effectiveness and accessibility of oral health care. Another important consideration is the urban environment (SDG 11). Due to substandard living circumstances, inadequate sanitation, and restricted access to dental treatment, residents of overcrowded slums are frequently more susceptible to dental problems. At the same time, putting dental health first can help achieve sustainability objectives. We support SDG 12, which promotes responsible consumption and production, by emphasizing preventive care, raising awareness, and advocating the use of recyclable dental supplies.

In the end, oral health is interwoven with global development and is not merely a stand-alone problem. Incorporating oral health into global action plans and public health policies is not only advantageous but also necessary if we are serious about reaching the SDGs.