Oral health disparities in New York State

New York State population is diverse, with a large proportion of racial and ethnic minorities. The poverty rate is two- to three-times higher among minorities. Oral diseases are higher among low-income and/or less-educated groups and in racial and ethnic minorities. The use of dental services is also lower. Eliminating disparities in oral health will require enhanced efforts at preventing disease, promoting health and delivering appropriate care. It will also require a thorough understanding of the lower use of already available effective preventive and treatment services, and additional interventions to address the identified causes. Many initiatives have been undertaken in New York State to address these disparities.