Dental shame stops people seeking help for oral health issues, study warns
Shame can lead people to avoid getting treatment for dental issues, potentially worsening oral health inequalities, a new study warns. A better understanding of dental shame could encourage more people to seek help, researchers and practitioners have said. It would alleviate some of the devastating consequences that oral health problems can have on overall health, disease and even risk of death. Researchers warn that healthcare practitioners can incite shame in patients both intentionally and unintentionally. When shaming is used purposefully with the intention to attempt to motivate positive health behaviours, there is no guarantee this will result in beneficial change. Those working in dentistry and other health care and social settings should be trained in shame competence. This approach includes addressing systemic barriers and designing empathetic and inclusive care environments. Dental shame can stem directly from oral health issues or the aesthetic appearance of the teeth. It is often more found in those who are vulnerable because of deprivation, trauma or abuse. It is also found in relation to drinking, smoking or eating habits. It can lead to lower self-worth, social isolation and unfavourable oral health care behaviours. The study is by Louise Folker, Esben Boeskov Øzhayat and Astrid Pernille Jespersenfrom…
