Exciting developments are underway in addressing the important issue of periodontal health disparities in South Korea! Since its inception in 1989, the Korean National Health Insurance (KNHI) has made strides in ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage for the population. However, data indicates that periodontal diseases continually rank among the top ten conditions encountered in outpatient settings, drawing attention to an area we can improve together. According to the 2013 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHNES), a notable 27.7% of adults aged 19 and older experienced severe periodontitis.1 This statistic reveals a significant opportunity for us to enhance public health through regular dental check-ups and ongoing supportive periodontal care, which have proven effective in alleviating these conditions.

One of the findings from a longitudinal population-based study by Professor Peter Meisel at the University of Greifswald highlights the critical influence of socioeconomic status on periodontal health.2 This research shows that those in disadvantaged groups are more susceptible to severe oral health challenges, further emphasizing the need for equitable access to care.

In a positive step forward, the Korean government is taking action by expanding dental care benefits under the KNHI. Agreed upon recently, this initiative covers preventive scaling procedures for adults, aiming to make periodontal healthcare services accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status. To evaluate the impact of this policy change, we conducted an in-depth analysis of KNHNES data from 2010 to 2014, involving around 12,000 participants.3 While the intent is commendable, our analysis has revealed some disparities in the outcomes. It appears that those with higher income and education levels benefit more, enjoying fewer unmet dental needs and more frequent preventive visits, thus maintaining better periodontal health.

Recognizing the importance of the national healthcare framework is essential in developing effective solutions. We are thrilled to present a detailed research paper in this issue that explores over a decade of KNHI service data.4 This seminal study investigates systemic factors contributing to the unsettling rise in tooth extraction rates, even amidst expanded public health insurance policies. The authors offer valuable insights into the obstacles that continue to perpetuate these trends while suggesting strategic recommendations for future initiatives.

By engaging with this research, stakeholders—including healthcare providers, policymakers, and community advocates—can gain a deeper understanding of how to address the uneven distribution of periodontal health outcomes. Together, we can foster equitable access to dental care and work towards a future where optimal periodontal health is attainable for all segments of the population.

Let’s remain optimistic about these developments and collaborate to refine our strategies for improving dental health. Every step we take towards bridging these gaps brings us closer to a healthier society, where everyone has the chance to enjoy the benefits of good oral health.

https://doi.org/10.5051/jpis.2017.47.5.263