Celebrating Black History Month: The Role of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Dental Healthcare

February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black Americans while recognizing the work that still needs to be done to achieve equality. In recent years, terms like diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and affirmative action have been weaponized and turned into slurs by some, often misrepresenting their purpose. These terms are not solely about race—and certainly not exclusively about Black people—but are instead about ensuring fair treatment and opportunities for all. Despite the backlash, the importance of DEI in creating equitable systems, including within dentistry, cannot be overstated.

As a Black woman who has worked in public health dentistry for 15 years, I know the importance of representation and opportunity. Some may insinuate I am a DEI hire, as if it diminishes my credentials or the hard work I put into earning my status as a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH). To that, I say: if I am a DEI hire, I proudly wear the honor because it means the doors opened for someone who looks like me. My contributions, my skills, and my passion speak for themselves.

In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of DEI in dental healthcare, highlight key moments in Black dental history, and examine how fostering cultural competence can create a more equitable healthcare system. By focusing on access and inclusion, we can work towards healthier smiles for everyone.

The Importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Dental Healthcare

DEI in dental healthcare isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a critical approach to improving health outcomes for underserved communities. Here’s how each element contributes to better oral health:

• Diversity ensures that dental professionals reflect the communities they serve. Patients often feel more comfortable with providers who share their background or understand their cultural needs.
• Equity means providing fair access to dental care for all, regardless of race, income, or geographic location. This includes addressing systemic barriers like cost, transportation, and lack of insurance.
• Inclusion fosters a healthcare environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Inclusive practices can help break down fears or mistrust of the dental system, which is common in marginalized communities.

Cultural Competence in Dentistry

Cultural competence refers to a healthcare provider’s ability to understand and respect cultural differences while providing care. In dentistry, this skill can significantly influence patient outcomes. Here’s why:

• Building Trust: Historical injustices, like the unethical Syphilis Study at Tuskegee, have led to mistrust in healthcare systems among Black communities. Culturally competent providers can rebuild trust by listening to and respecting patients’ concerns.
• Improving Communication: Understanding cultural norms helps providers explain treatments in ways that resonate with patients. For instance, some communities might prioritize natural remedies, and acknowledging this can open a dialogue about incorporating these practices into a care plan.
• Tailoring Care: Cultural competence allows dentists to adapt their care plans to meet the unique needs of diverse populations, such as dietary habits that impact oral health.

Barriers to Dental Healthcare

For many individuals, accessing dental care is a challenge. These barriers disproportionately affect Black and low-income communities:

• Cost: Dental care is often expensive, and many people lack insurance that covers preventive visits.
• Location: Dental offices may not be accessible in rural or underserved urban areas.
• Mistrust: As mentioned earlier, historical mistreatment has made some communities wary of seeking care.
• Lack of Representation: When patients don’t see providers who look like them or understand their experiences, it can discourage them from seeking care.

Addressing these barriers requires intentional DEI efforts. For example, mobile dental clinics and community-based programs can bring care directly to underserved areas. Additionally, increasing the number of Black dental professionals can help build trust and representation in the field.

Black History in Dentistry

The contributions of Black Americans to the field of dentistry are profound and inspiring. Here are some key milestones:

• Robert Tanner Freeman (1869): The first Black dentist in the United States graduated from Harvard Dental School. His achievement paved the way for others to enter the field.
• Ida Gray Nelson Rollins (1890): The first Black woman to earn a dental degree in the U.S. graduated from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. She inspired generations of Black women to pursue careers in dentistry.
• National Dental Association (1913): Founded to support Black dentists who were excluded from the American Dental Association, this organization continues to advocate for equity in oral healthcare.
• The Role of HBCUs: Historically Black Colleges and Universities, such as Howard University and Meharry Medical College, have been instrumental in training Black dentists and addressing disparities in care.
• National Dental Hygienists’ Association (NDHA) (1932): Established to support African American dental hygienists, the NDHA promotes oral health in underserved communities and offers professional development, advocacy, and community outreach. Their work ensures access to quality oral healthcare for all.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are over 200,000 registered dental hygienists in the United States. However, this is a small number compared to the population of over 330 million people, highlighting the need for more professionals to address oral health disparities, particularly in underserved communities.

How DEI Improves Oral Health Outcomes

Implementing DEI initiatives in dental healthcare can:

• Reduce Disparities: By addressing systemic inequities, DEI efforts can close the gap in oral health outcomes between different racial and economic groups.
• Promote Preventive Care: Education campaigns tailored to diverse audiences can encourage regular check-ups and healthy habits.
• Foster Innovation: Diverse teams bring varied perspectives, leading to creative solutions for complex health challenges.
• Empower Communities: When communities see themselves represented in healthcare, they’re more likely to engage with and trust the system.

Taking Action: What You Can Do

Everyone has a role to play in promoting DEI in dental healthcare. Here’s how you can help:

• Advocate for Representation: Support policies that increase diversity in dental professional schools and the industry.
• Educate Yourself: Learn about the unique challenges faced by underserved communities and how you can help address them.
• Volunteer or Donate: Organizations like mobile dental clinics and community health programs need resources to reach those in need.
• Spread Awareness: Share information about the importance of oral health and access to care during Black History Month and beyond.

As we celebrate Black History Month, let’s remember that achieving diversity, equity, and inclusion in dental healthcare is not just a goal but a necessity. By fostering cultural competence and breaking down barriers, we can ensure that everyone—regardless of their background—can achieve a healthy smile.

Together, we can honor the legacy of Black pioneers in dentistry while building a brighter, more inclusive future for oral healthcare. Let’s continue the conversation, take action, and create a world where access to dental care is a right, not a privilege.