How commerce influences health and oral health

There is increasing recognition that commercial factors can influence health and oral health both negatively and positively. This narrative review summarises the tactics used to market sugar, tobacco and alcohol, products that can be harmful to oral health. This article considers options open to governments and official agencies to combat the adverse influence of commerce on oral health. It also examines the role of the dental care system itself as a commercial determinant. Finally, it also reviews how commercial determinants can positively influence oral health. Dental professionals need to be aware of the influence of commercial actors on oral health. Such knowledge can enable them to act as advocates for health and oral health improvement and to engage meaningfully in wider societal debates.