Davidson, Maria del GuadalupeSingleton, Terrisa2018-12-102018-12-102018-12-15https://hdl.handle.net/11244/316300The health care system in America does not work for everyone. Specifically, the oral health care system has inherent historical, economic, and scientific aspects which combined, result in a fragmented system that disenfranchises many population groups. In Oklahoma, the existing safety net of underfunded public dental health benefits augmented by charitable, volunteer-driven endeavors is not enough to meet the needs of these underserved and vulnerable populations, as evidenced by persistent dental disparities. However, a shift in societal attitudes regarding oral health care as a social justice issue instead of a luxury may provide the catalyst needed to improve the system and increase access to dental care in Oklahoma.oral health safety netaccess to dental caredental disparitiessocial justiceoral health equity