Targeted Call for Research: Oral Health Care in Australia 2024

Oral disease disproportionately affects various population groups in Australia (First Nations communities, children, the elderly, and those with a disability, mental health issue, and from low socioeconomic backgrounds). Failure to address the complex dynamics involved at the population level, has resulted in continued inequality in access to services, significant morbidity and poor oral disease outcomes. Given the prevalence of oral disease and its wider systemic health impact, funding focused across oral health disciplines could make significant inroads to alleviating disease burden and impact on patients and the health system.

This TCR was prioritised by NHMRC Targeted Calls for Research Prioritisation Working Committee.  

Successful applications for this TCR will:

• Build a strong evidence base for targeted interventions addressing oral health issues on Australian population groups and the health system.
• Develop a better understanding of the key areas of impact for populations most at risk of poor oral health.
• Expand Australian research capacity in oral health care and implementation of service delivery programs.

The expected outcomes of this TCR are:

• An accelerate implementation of evidence-based interventions targeted to oral health programs in an Australian setting.
• A reduction in health impacts associated with oral health and disease, including a reduction in health inequities.
• Mitigation of the risks associated with the impacts of oral health on health system demands.