Food Insecurity and Oral Health Disparities

An estimated 23.7 million adults, approximately 9.2% of the US population experience food insecurity.²⁸ Research shows a strong association between food insecurity and poor oral health outcomes.²⁸ Adults who rate their oral health as fair or poor are significantly more likely to experience food insecurity. These disparities are especially pronounced among Black, Hispanic, and younger adults (18-44) who report higher rates of food insecurity and are more likely to experience one or more oral health symptoms.²⁸

Figure 15. Relationship between food insecurity and oral health symptoms.²⁸

Figure 15. Relationship between food insecurity and oral health symptoms.²⁸

Oral health care providers can play a vital role in addressing food insecurity by screening at-risk patients during dental visits. Through interdisciplinary collaboration with social workers, nutritionists, and community-based organizations, providers can help connect patients to resources that improve food access and overall well-being.²⁸