Sammanfattning
By 2014, 51.2 million people worldwide were fleeing from war and
political instability. The number of refugees and asylum seekers to
the Nordic countries is increasing, with Sweden receiving the most.
Research indicates more oral health problems among refugees
compared to the population in the Nordic countries. Despite this, oral
screening and targeted dental services have not been prioritized.
Cultural background affects oral health through interacting with
factors such as biology, psychology and socio-economy. Increasing
cultural diversity requires health workers to adopt a transcultural
perspective and be aware of differences in oral health literacy.
A transcultural perspective will allow us to learn about different
cultures and traditions concerning oral health, but also to become
aware and manage our own prejudicial attitudes that could stand
in the way of communication. To secure communication further, a
professional interpreter should be available when necessary.
When working with refugees, it is important to be aware that
about one third has experienced torture. Put in a prone position,
such as the dental treatment setting, torture victims are in danger
of flashbacks and other psychological reactions. It is recommended
for dental personnel to study the principles of traumainformed
dental care. It is important for us to have respect and
knowledge about our patients’ torture experiences, but we do not
need to know the details.