UM Rady Faculty of Health Sciences – News & Research

Canada’s escalating oral health crisis, particularly among Indigenous children, is receiving focused attention thanks to the groundbreaking work of Dr. Robert Schroth. His research isn’t just identifying problems; it’s actively shaping policy and prompting a re-evaluation of how oral healthcare is delivered – and who delivers it – across the country. This comes at a critical juncture, as Canada grapples with expanding healthcare access and the rising costs associated with reactive dental treatments.

For decades, early childhood caries (tooth decay) has been understood as a localized health issue. Dr. Schroth’s work, spanning over 15 years, has demonstrated its deep connection to broader social and economic inequities. His 2016 study revealing Indigenous children were seven times more likely to require hospital dental surgery wasn’t merely a statistic; it was a stark indicator of systemic disadvantages impacting health outcomes. This research builds on a growing body of evidence linking oral health to overall well-being, impacting everything from school performance to long-term health prospects.

The current focus on the oral microbiome, genetic variants, and environmental factors – diet, hygiene, and access to care – represents a significant evolution in understanding caries. The effectiveness of interventions like silver diamine fluoride, demonstrated in Dr. Schroth’s clinical trials, offers a promising, cost-effective solution, but its implementation requires widespread adoption and training.

The six-year Applied Public Health Chair awarded by the CIHR is particularly noteworthy. This funding allows Dr. Schroth to be agile, responding to emerging public health concerns. His current scrutiny of the anti-water fluoridation movement is a prime example. With several municipalities across Canada revisiting fluoridation policies, his research will be crucial in providing evidence-based insights into the potential consequences of removing this preventative measure.

The Forward Look: Dr. Schroth’s work is poised to drive several key developments. First, expect increased pressure on the Canadian Dental Care Plan to address not just financial barriers, but also geographical disparities in access to care. The plan’s initial rollout will likely be scrutinized for its impact on reducing the gap in oral health outcomes between different populations. Second, the evaluation of the caries assessment guide for non-dental professionals could lead to a significant expansion of preventative care, particularly in remote and underserved communities. However, successful implementation will depend on adequate training and resources for these healthcare providers. Finally, the ongoing research into the oral microbiome of First Nations and Métis preschoolers, in collaboration with Dr. Prashen Chelikani, promises to unlock further insights into the root causes of caries and inform the development of targeted interventions. The increasing emphasis on interdisciplinary research, as Dr. Schroth notes, is a trend that will likely accelerate, leading to more holistic and effective approaches to public health challenges.

The growing anti-water fluoridation movement represents a significant threat to public health gains. Dr. Schroth’s research will be vital in countering misinformation and advocating for evidence-based policies. His leadership of the global Early Childhood Caries Advocacy Group positions him to influence international best practices and promote a unified approach to tackling this widespread issue.