Oral Health Care in the LGBT Population: Access, Perceptions, Barriers & Potential Solutions

Background: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) individuals in addition to having the same basic health care needs as the general population, face health disparities. Poor oral health leads to a multitude of negative effects in an individual’s quality of life.  The literature on the oral health of sexual minority communities is sparse. Objectives: This study investigated access to dental care for LGBT people, the actual and perceived barriers for their dental care, and potential solutions to improve their access to dental care. Methods: The questionnaire was administered at five locations in North East Ohio to 355 subjects. Results: Among the participants, 315 (88.48%) self-identified as LGBT or other sexual minority status. The LGBT participants visited the dentist slightly more often (65.8% vs. 61.6%), than the general population. Nearly 8.0% of the study subjects had experienced discrimination in dental offices. Lack of finances was the primary barrier for not seeking dental care among LGBT.  A majority of LGBT subjects preferred a dentist to be knowledgeable of STIs, HIV/AIDS, and to be trained in the needs of the LGBT community. Transgender subjects were especially vulnerable when compared to LGB: less dental visits and being discriminated by the dentist. Conclusion: Primary reason for the LGBT population not seeking dental care was financial. Study participants preferred a dentist to be an ally of the LGBT community. Efforts should be made to include LGBT cultural sensitivity and oral manifestations of STIs and HIV/AIDS in dental school curriculum.