Dental health problems in Iraq: a historical and contemporary review

Abstract

This review examines the historical and contemporary dental-medical health challenges in Iraq, tracing their historical roots and evaluating contemporary issues and challenges. Iraq's legacy of dental care, from the early practices of herbal remedies and spiritual rituals during the ancient Mesopotamia to the scholarly advancements during the Islamic Golden Age, reveals a tradition deeply rooted in medical knowledge. However, the modern history of Iraq has been marred by prolonged conflicts, including the Iran-Iraq War, the Gulf War, and ongoing sectarian violence, which have severely disrupted the healthcare infrastructure. These conflicts have damaged healthcare facilities, caused economic strain, and caused a significant brain drain, leading to a critical shortage of qualified dental professionals. Currently, Iraq faces widespread dental diseases such as caries, periodontal disease, and oral cancers, exacerbated by limited access to care, particularly in rural and conflict-affected areas. The lack of public awareness about oral hygiene, outdated training facilities for dental professionals, and economic barriers further compound these challenges. Despite efforts by the Iraqi government and international organizations to rebuild infrastructure and implement public health campaigns, progress has been slow. This review highlights the need for a multifaceted approach to improving dental-medical health in Iraq, including strengthening healthcare infrastructure, enhancing education and training, increasing public awareness, and fostering international collaboration. Addressing these issues is crucial for advancing the oral and overall health of the Iraqi population.