Arkansas’ Oral Health Checkup Isn’t Pretty but There’s Hope
New data from United for ALICE shows that lower-income Arkansans face steeper oral health challenges than the national average, from fewer dental visits to higher tooth loss. The gaps are wide, but the numbers offer a roadmap for oral health professionals who want to help turn the tide.
When it comes to oral health, Arkansas is having a bit of a “bless their hearts” moment. New issue briefs from United for Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed (ALICE) reveal that the state’s dental divide is alive and well, and in some areas, wider than the national average. For Arkansans who are working hard but struggling to cover essentials, regular dental care often ends up at the bottom of the to-do list.
Nearly half of Arkansas adults below the ALICE threshold skipped a dental visit in the past year, and one in five hasn’t seen a dentist in 5 or more years. That’s a long time to ignore molars that may or may not be plotting an exit strategy. Tooth loss tells a similar story: 29% of lower-income adults in the state have had six or more permanent teeth removed due to decay or periodontal diseases, which is far above the national average.
Access is another hurdle. Two-thirds of Arkansas households below the ALICE threshold live in areas with low or no access to dental providers, a number that skyrockets to a stunning 92% in rural communities. Even for those who want to prioritize oral health, geography is simply not on their side. And with 30% of adults lacking dental insurance, the cost barrier remains a constant companion.
Despite the gloomy stats, there’s a silver lining: data this detailed gives oral health professionals a clearer path forward. Understanding where and why these gaps exist empowers providers, policymakers, and community partners to craft targeted, meaningful solutions. Click here to read more.
