Oral Health Disparities (OHD) is an 18-month pilot project that seeks to learn about incarcerated individuals’ oral health needs, their access to dental care, and the barriers they face in utilizing oral health services while incarcerated. The research team is interviewing individuals currently in jail or prison, individuals with lived experience with incarceration, as well as jail staff and leadership. The study is employing mixed methods, combining qualitative interviews and short surveys to triangulate findings across multiple data sources. It also includes a scoping review to assess the breadth and depth of existing evidence and provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue.  

Interviews are ongoing at the LaSalle County Jail. The team also partnered with Lighthouse Recovery, an outpatient substance use treatment program that serves predominately low-income clients, including many who have involvement with the criminal legal system. Participants are being recruited from both rural and non-rural areas in Illinois, with the goal of expanding the research beyond Illinois.  

Center for Health and the Social Sciences

Oral Health Disparities One-Pager