Key Takeaways
Gun violence is often associated with physical harm, but its impact extends far beyond the physical. A recent study has revealed a disturbing connection between gun violence and dental health, highlighting the importance of addressing violence as a public health crisis.
Neighborhoods with Higher Gun Violence are Less Likely to Go to the Dentist
- Researchers examined 20,332 census tracts within the 100 largest cities in the U.S. between 2014 and 2022, using information from two major federal databases.
- The study found that people in neighborhoods with higher levels of firearm violence were less likely to go to the dentist, with an average of 60% of people reporting dental care in the past year, ranging from 18% to 89% depending on the neighborhood.
The Impact of Gun Violence on Dental Health
- For every additional shooting, fewer people went to the dentist and more eventually lost teeth, researchers discovered.
- Each shooting led to a 0.01% reduction in people going to the dentist, and a 0.06% increase in losing a tooth, results show.
More Than Just Physical Harm
Gun violence has far-reaching consequences, creating barriers to essential health care like dental visits, which can have long-term consequences for oral health.
“Firearm violence doesn’t just shape public safety, it shapes health behaviors, including whether people feel safe enough to seek care,” Daniel Semenza, director of research at the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center at Rutgers University, said in a news release. “Firearm violence is a public health crisis that requires a comprehensive approach to address its impact on our communities.”
Factors That Contribute to Poor Dental Health
- Stressed individuals are more likely to eat unhealthy, smoke, get less sleep, and skip exercise, all of which are detrimental to oral health.
- Neighborhoods with higher gun violence are also more likely to experience poverty, lack of access to healthcare, and other social determinants of health that contribute to poor dental health.
A Call to Action
People should regularly see a dentist and practice good oral care, despite the gun violence in their neighborhood.
| Frequency | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Every 6 months | Prevents cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems |
| Every 3 months for high-risk patients | Prevents oral health issues and promotes overall health |
Conclusion
Gun violence is not just a physical threat, but also a hidden danger to our oral health.
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