Whole Health: Connecting Oral, Mental, and Physical Health

What happens when families in crisis can’t access basic health care—like dental cleanings, mental health counseling, or reliable medical visits? According to speakers at a recent panel hosted by the 100 Families Initiative in Pulaski County, the consequences ripple far beyond the individual. The conversation highlighted the urgent need for a more holistic, coordinated approach to care.

Richard Robinson, a dental hygienist at Arkansas Family Dental and founder of the nonprofit My Way, offered a compelling testimony about how oral health is deeply linked to wider physical and social outcomes. Robinson, who noted he is one of the few African American male hygienists in the country, shared how he mentors students and visits schools to demystify dental care.

"Education is elevation," Robinson said. "We’re so focused on the cosmetic side of teeth, but we don’t talk enough about how dental bacteria can lead to heart problems, respiratory infections, and pregnancy complications."

He emphasized that for many low-income families, access to care is complicated by cost, lack of insurance, or being placed on long waiting lists—even when they are in pain. "You can’t wait three months with an abscess. That’s not care."

Panelists discussed how a lack of transportation, childcare, and financial stability negatively impact health. Robinson pointed out that for many people, missing work to go to a health appointment means lost wages they can’t afford to give up.

"It’s not just about access—it’s about availability," Robinson said. "Most clinics close by 3 p.m. We need evening hours, weekend clinics, and wraparound support."

Dr. Odell Johnson of the Southern Public Health and Criminal Justice Research Center emphasized the importance of building trust through collaboration with churches, schools, and community organizations. Meanwhile, Robinson shared stories of working with reentry homes to provide dental care to women recently released from incarceration, restoring both their health and confidence.

Dr. Johnson highlighted efforts to bring services to rural areas like College Station and Sweet Home by coordinating mobile clinics and partnering with trusted local leaders. "When care isn’t coordinated, people fall through the cracks," he said. "We have to connect services so people don’t give up out of frustration."

Dr. Johnson said that means rethinking how and where care is delivered—from pediatrician visits and school outreach to church-based wellness events. It also means investing in community health workers who understand the lived experiences of the families they serve.

The event closed with a challenge to community leaders, nonprofits, and policymakers: move from intention to action.

"These aren’t just health issues—they’re justice issues," added Dr. Johnson. "Because when people can’t get the care they need, everything else falls apart."