Conceptual approach to improving dental care under new socio-economic conditions
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STATE INSTITUTION OF SCIENCE «CENTER FOR INNOVATIVE HEALTHCARE TECHNOLOGIES» STATE ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENT, KYIV,
UKRAINE
Publication date: 2026-08-30
Wiadomości Lekarskie 2026;(8):1827-1833
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ABSTRACT
Aim: To define a conceptual approach to the development of a model for improving dental care under new socio-economic conditions in Ukraine. Materials and Methods: The study used official statistical data from the Public Health Center of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, the State Statistics Service of Ukraine, and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) regarding the prevalence, incidence, and burden of oral diseases (DALYs) for the period 1991–2023. A sociological survey was conducted among 413 dentists, 360 family physicians, and 368 patients. Bibliographic, descriptive statistical, and analytical methods were applied. Results: Negative oral health trends, including increased prevalence of dental diseases and a high disease burden, were accompanied by a reduction in public dental infrastructure, insufficient prevention and financing, and decreased access to care, particularly in rural areas. The prevalence of edentulism demonstrated the most pronounced upward trend, particularly among women: by 44% in the 15–49 age group, by 27% in the 50–59 age group, and by 8% among those aged 70 years and older. The incidence of oral diseases among the adult population overall decreased by 5% during the study period, which may indicate a low rate of healthcare utilisation. However, the incidence of edentulism increased, particularly among women aged 15–49 years (by 39%) and 50–69 years (by 18.2%). The prevalence of oral neoplasms rose by 47.5%. 43.3±2.6% of family physicians consider oral health assessment exclusively the responsibility of dentists. Although 42.2±2.6% report examining the oral cavity, this is confirmed by only 23.4±2.2% of patients. Only 27.8±2.4% provide preventive advice on oral health. Conclusions: Improving the accessibility and quality of dental care requires modernization of the system through diversified financing and a comprehensive conceptual framework encompassing key organizational, financial, technological, educational, preventive, and workforce components.