Oral health is critical to overall health and well-being. Unfortunately, marginalized, historically excluded, and underserved communities frequently bear a disproportionate burden of poor oral health due to social and political determinants of health. Veterans, in particular, face an increased risk of disease and disability, impacting not only their oral health but also their overall well-being.

In Iowa, veterans are more likely to be rural, have lower incomes, and have disabilities. These factors can all exacerbate the already significant poor oral health outcomes experienced by veterans. This report was developed to serve as a resource for key target audiences including clinicians, advocates, health administrators, nonprofit organizations, researchers, and policy makers to design and implement solutions for Iowa veterans.

Support for this report was provided by Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation through the Community of Health Fund. The Delta Dental Foundation adopts a system change framework through investments in oral health, oral health and overall health integration, and overall health, all through an equity lens. They also understand the best outcomes result through the connection of oral health and overall health. Delta Dental Foundation of Iowa directs funding through three strategic focus areas: education and advocacy, access and prevention, and policy and research. AIDPH is grateful to the Delta Dental Foundation of Iowa for their financial support of this independently-developed research report.

https://doi.org/10.58677/EABT9111